Akufo-Addo Must Assure Ghanaians of Election Security – Ibn Chambas

Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, the African Union’s High Representative for Silencing the Guns (AUHRSG), has appealed to President Akufo-Addo to take all necessary measures to prevent violence and bloodshed during the upcoming December Elections.

Dr. Chambas reflected on the tragic loss of lives during the 2020 election, describing it as a regrettable stain on Ghana’s impressive history of peaceful electoral processes, and warned that such a deviation from this norm must not occur again.

The AU envoy stressed that the 2024 elections will be a legacy-defining moment that will shape how the President’s tenure is remembered.

“And it should not be under the watch of Mr. President, with his antecedents in democratic building in this country, that Ghana will experience violence and mayhem during this general elections.”

“Please, Mr President, make it your pledge, your mantra, your cardinal goal, to deliver elections in which not a single Ghanaian blood will be shed – 2020 was to some extent a blur on our enviable record in delivering non-violent elections. Let it not be repeated, let us draw a line on that,” he added.

Dr. Chambas highlighted Ghana’s exceptional status as a beacon of hope on the continent, where many countries are struggling with militant groups and instability.

He noted that Ghana has demonstrated remarkable resilience in maintaining a peaceful and stable democracy, characterized by a high level of tolerance, social cohesion, and national unity.

However, he cautioned that Ghana’s reputation and exemplary status in Africa and globally are typically put to the test during election years, and the 2024 elections are no exception to this trend.

He noted that some people view the 2024 presidential election as particularly tense, which he believes shouldn’t be the case.

Dr. Chambas clarified that the election features two exceptional individuals, the former president, and the incumbent vice president, who have both made significant contributions to Ghana’s peace and development.

He  emphasized that it is unacceptable for Ghana’s democracy to experience a violent setback during the presidential election between John Mahama and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, stressing that all individuals will be held accountable for ensuring a peaceful process.

Dr. Chambas also appealed to Ghana’s security agencies to refrain from using excessive force during the elections and instead maintain their neutrality as impartial guardians of peace.

Having had the privilege of collaborating with Ghanaian security forces on numerous peacekeeping missions, Dr. Chambas acknowledged their exceptional reputation, built on a foundation of excellence and professionalism.

“They have often acted with commendable professionalism, winning the respect of citizens in missions in which they have been deployed across the world to protect vulnerable civilians.”

“This same level of professionalism is required during the deployment of our police and armed men, armed forces included during the forthcoming elections. Use of lethal weapons is totally uncalled for. The police and their uniformed personnel must take the primary responsibility with the armed forces in the background, coming in only in rare and exceptional cases”.

Dr. Chambas indicated that the public expects security personnel to remain apolitical, neutral, and fair in their actions.

He stressed that security personnel must ensure the security of the electoral process in a way that protects citizens’ rights, fosters a sense of safety, and encourages full participation in the elections without intimidation or fear.

Dr. Chambas further emphasized that accountability will be paramount in this election, and it must be made unequivocally clear that everyone will be held responsible for their actions.

He noted that this includes individuals, security personnel, and particularly vigilante groups, who will face consequences for any violent behavior that disrupts the electoral process.

As such, Dr. Chambas encouraged all Ghanaians to fulfill their respective roles in preserving peace, rather than being complacent.

He also stressed that ensuring a credible election is a collective responsibility that requires the efforts of everyone.