Wa West District: Be ambassadors for peaceful elections — NCCE to Youth

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in the Wa West District of the Upper West Region has collaborated with various youth groups, including persons with disabilities, vocational trainees, artisans, young graduates, and assembly members, to promote peace and tolerance as Ghana approaches the 2024 elections.

Following a one-day engagement, the participants issued a communiqué affirming their commitment to peaceful electioneering. The statement read in part: “We, the youth of the Wa West District, affirm our dedication to maintaining a peaceful election process. We pledge to be ambassadors of peace, striving to positively influence young minds before, during, and after the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections, and to uphold Ghana’s democratic credentials.”

Madam Esther Suglo, the Wa West District Director of NCCE, hosted the event and urged the youth to embrace their role as peace ambassadors. She highlighted the significance of the session, noting, “With just 28 days to the 2024 general elections, it is vital to educate citizens on the importance of our constitution and the dangers of extremist activities threatening Ghana’s stability.” She acknowledged the challenges facing the country, such as youth unemployment, poverty, and local disputes, while emphasizing the need to prevent violent extremism in the district.

Upper West Regional Deputy Director of the NCCE, Mr. John Yirbile, echoed the call for tolerance and patriotism. He explained the link between radicalization and violent extremism, warning that such activities erode cohesion and undermine national unity. He cautioned young people against using religion or political affiliations to foster hatred, urging them to respect local leadership and the rule of law.

Renowned security and peace advocate Mr. Tahiru Lukman emphasized the importance of tolerance and a sense of community among the youth. He warned against political vigilantism, which has been outlawed, and cautioned young people not to become tools for political violence. Instead, he encouraged them to prioritize education and career development over-dependence on political patronage. Drawing comparisons to violent extremism in countries like Nigeria, Mali, and Burkina Faso, Mr. Lukman stressed the need to protect Ghana’s status as a stable democracy and beacon of peace in the region.

The program brought together 40 participants, including representatives from diverse youth groups, media personnel, and NCCE staff from the Wa West District. It served as a platform to educate the youth on the dangers of violent extremism and to reinforce their role in sustaining peace and democracy in Ghana.