Youth in Zongo communities in the Ablekuma Central Constituency have been urged to reject violence and embrace dialogue as the 2024 elections draw near.
The call for peace was made during a peace advocacy lecture organized by the Light of Islam Youth Organization over the weekend.
The event, themed “Never Again,” aimed to educate the youth on the significance of maintaining peace and shunning violence during the electoral period.
Speakers highlighted the tragic outcomes of electoral violence, referencing the 2020 elections where a thirty-year-old man lost his life and several others were injured due to political confrontations.
Comfort Azalletey, the Ablekuma Central Municipal Director of the National Commission for Civic Education, urged the youth to champion peace and advocate for non-violent conflict resolution.
“Dialogue is essential for resolving conflicts,” she said. “Let us collaborate to cultivate a peaceful and harmonious community.”
Dr. Haruna Zagoon Sayeed, a lecturer at the University of Ghana, underscored the necessity of fairness in the electoral process.
He called upon the Electoral Commission, Ghana Police Service, and all stakeholders to execute their responsibilities with impartiality and fairness.
Dr. Sayeed said fairness plays a pivotal role in upholding peace and stability during elections.
“While we advocate for peace, it is imperative that the electoral process remains fair and transparent,” he stated. “This is crucial for fostering trust and confidence in our democratic system.”
Dr. Zagoon Sayeed further advised Muslim leaders to reject politicians who attempt to incite violence during visits to mosques.
“Our places of worship should serve as havens of peace, not platforms for sowing discord,” Dr. Sayeed asserted. “Let us reject those who seek to exploit our religion to sow division.”
The youth were encouraged to focus on issue-based campaigning and refrain from engaging in violence and intimidation.
Community leaders pledged their support for the initiative, ensuring that the message of peace and dialogue is preached throughout the Zongo communities.
The 2020 presidential and parliamentary elections in Ablekuma Central were marred by a tragic incident that led to the death of a 30-year-old Ibrahim Abass.
Abass was reportedly shot by a national security officer identified as Kola, according to the Ghana Police Service. The shooting occurred at the collation center in the Ablekuma Central Constituency, located at the Odorkor Police Church, where four others, including a police officer, were also wounded.
Story by: Emmanuel Coffie
