‘No Peace Pact With Akufo-Addo’s Violent NPP’- Mahama Supports Asiedu Nketia’s

Former President John Mahama has backed the decision of the Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, to decline hasty commitments to peace agreements ahead of the December election.

During a media briefing in Ho, Volta Region, on Friday, the former President explained that although the NDC has yet to make a formal decision, Mr. Asiedu Nketia’s statement on Joy FM that “Signing a peace declaration holds no significance for the party as past agreements have not produced tangible outcomes,” is valid.

He pointed out that despite a peace pact being signed before the 2020 elections, the Akufo-Addo government presided over a violent campaign resulting in the deaths of eight Ghanaians.

The government has not taken responsibility for these killings. “After reading the statement from our Chairman [Asiedu Nketia] this morning, even though it has not been formally discussed, I comprehend his perspective,” Mahama stated.

“He emphasizes the importance of justice and argues that signing a peace pact should not be celebrated without taking concrete actions to ensure peace prevails. When a peace agreement is signed, and our fellow citizens are gunned down with no repercussions, investigations, or compensation, then what was the purpose of signing the peace pact? I understand where he is coming from, though a final decision has not been made.”

Mahama suggested that stakeholders should prioritize establishing the necessary foundations for peace rather than just signing agreements.

“I believe those advocating for peace pacts, organizing meetings at the Movenpick Hotel with snacks and drinks, and assuming that everything will be fine after signing a piece of paper are being cautioned that simply signing the pact will not suffice for everything to be alright.

He is conveying a message that more action is needed beyond the signature on the peace pact,” he remarked.