Politics

Do Not Sell your Vote, it Undermines your Integrity – NCCE

In a recent address, Mrs Aliko Caroline, the NCCE Builsa South District Director, highlighted the importance of responsible civic engagement and the battle against vote buying and misinformation as we approach the 2024 elections, ‘Do not sell your vote, it undermines your integrity’. This statement was made during the second phase of the meeting for the Inter-Party Dialogue Committee (IPDC) and the Prevention and Countering of Violent Extremism (PCVE) project, which is backed by the European Union. The meeting took place at the District Assembly Hall on Tuesday, September 17, 2024.

The Director emphasized that the NCCE established the IPDC as a unifying body to promote peace and address issues at the constituency level. The NCCE aims to foster constructive dialogue and conflict resolution, working to build trust among political parties and enhance democratic institutions and processes.

Highlighting the commission’s focus for the 2024 elections, the Director outlined four key areas of concern:

Misinformation/Disinformation: The NCCE urged IPDC members to combat the spread of fake news and hate speech which can escalate tensions within the district.
Money in Politics: A call to discourage the practice of vote-buying which compromises the integrity of the electoral process.
Electoral Violence: Parties are encouraged to sensitize their members against defacing posters, using insulting language, and engaging in disruptive behaviours.
Extremist Behavior: The youth are encouraged to avoid activities that could damage the integrity of democracy and to reject financial or other incentives from extremist groups.

During the opening of the meeting, the assistant director Mr. Rashid, welcomed participants and pledged the assembly’s support to all efforts by the NCCE and the IPDC towards ensuring a peaceful election.

Further into the meeting, Mr. Robert Ubindam, head of operation and intelligence, Ghana immigration services, Paga Commandry presented on violent extremism and the measures to counteract such threats, underlining the importance of vigilance and proactive community involvement to safeguard the democratic process.

The District Chief Executive, Hon. Daniel Kwame Gariba, also present for the meeting, commended the NCCE’s efforts in facilitating the session. He also re-iterated the seemingly looming danger trend, if more conscious efforts are not made to ensure continuous and sustainable peace. He cited examples of the chaos in neighbouring countries as a result of the activities of violent extremists and the potential for that to spill over to Ghana, until we take pragmatic efforts such as looking out for red flags, liaising with the security service, and not participating in divisive politics.

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The NCCE session also included an open forum, engaging participants in discussions about identifying youth recruited by violent extremists. This portion of the meeting highlighted the importance of recognizing early signs of radicalization among young individuals and the role of community leaders in mitigating such risks.

The diverse attendance comprised representatives from the CHRAJ, Muslim and Christian societies, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), the traditional council, various political parties, the youth parliament, and other organizations. This broad participation underscored the community’s commitment to peace and democratic integrity.

The Director also appealed for peace and unity, reflecting on the district’s history of peaceful coexistence despite political and religious differences. She called on all stakeholders, particularly the youth, to embrace peace and not allow divisive politics to disrupt the community.

In her concluding remarks, Aliko Caroline stressed that the 2024 general election is not a ‘do or die’ affair but an opportunity to prioritize peace and democratic values. The NCCE urges political parties and citizens to foster a tolerant and respectful electioneering campaign.

This proactive approach by the NCCE Builsa South aims to ensure a peaceful and fair election, setting a standard for responsible civic conduct across the region.

Earlier on the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) inaugurated a 33-member Inter-Party Dialogue Committee (IPDC) in Ayawaso Central Municipality to promote peace in the 2024 general elections. Chaired by Nii Kpowolunor, head of the Kokomlemle family, with Superintendent Augustina Enti, Kotobabi Divisional Police Commander, as Vice Chairperson, the committee includes representatives from political parties, the media, traditional authorities, and civil society.

The IPDC aims to address electoral concerns, promote tolerance, and resolve party conflicts to ensure a peaceful election. The committee will engage stakeholders, organize forums, and provide a platform for dialogue to prevent potential violence.