Bono East Minister calls for violence-free election

Mr. Kwasi Adu-Gyan, the Bono East Regional Minister, has reminded the people of the region of the need to approach this year’s general elections with thoughtfulness, responsibility and a commitment to democratic values.

He believes that all stakeholders must work together to assure the consolidation of democratic tenets, and help to maintain Ghana’s pride of place on the continent as a model of democracy in Africa.

Addressing the Bono East regional edition of this year’s 67th Independence Day celebration parade held at the Ohene Ameyaw Park in Techiman on Wednesday March 6, 2024, the Regional Minister expressed regrets about the electoral violence that characterized the collation of results in the Techiman South constituency during the 2020 elections which claimed two lives while some others were injured in the process.

“The Bono East Region was in the air waves during the 2020 elections on a very disturbing news. This was due to the melee which ensued during the collation of the election results in the Techiman South Constituency that led to the death of two persons and many injured. Never again should this unfortunate thing happen in the Bono East Region during elections,” he narrated.

He stated: “Not even a drop of blood should be shed in our peaceful Region due to electioneering activities and violence. Let us stay positive and respectful. Engage in constructive conversations with those who have different opinions and avoid spreading hate and division. We must all be committed to the promotion of tolerance and respect, rather than resorting to violence or hostility to ensure a violence free election on 7th December 2024.”

National vigilance
The Minister noted that the prevailing peace being enjoyed in the region today would become a nightmare if the people did not consciously cultivate a high sense of national vigilance in all aspects of life, be they environment, chieftaincy and security.

“It is an urgent task of all the people of the Region to rise like one man, to rid the Region of all security threats. One significant feature of the history of the Bono East Region is that in the face of all trials, difficulties and disagreements, we are never torn apart. This indeed is an achievement we must be very proud of. We must try to maintain this cohesion and refuse to be disintegrated by any form of strife or misunderstanding,” he further said.

Mr. Adu-Gyan also urged Ghanaians to use this year’s Independence Day celebrations to reaffirm their commitment to democracy, and pledge to uphold the principles of justice, equality and freedom for all.

Better future
“Let us continue to work together to build a better future for our country and the generations to come. Our democracy is our pride, and we must stand together to protect it. We need to celebrate this anniversary with gratitude for the progress we have made and a renewed determination to safeguard the values that make our democracy strong,” the minister added.

“As we celebrate 67 years of independence and sovereignty, it is worthwhile to remind ourselves that freedom is a living flame to be constantly fueled, and not a monument to be saluted and revered occasionally. Ghana’s freedom must be all eternal flame to be continually fueled by all our governments and people because it defines our humanity,” he said.

The Regional Minster also commended the school children drawn from various basic and senior high schools in and around the Techiman municipality for their excellent marching skills and their rich cultural display.