Peace Pact 2024: Rev. Professor Nash applauds Peace Council, Presidential Candidates

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Peace Awards (GPA), Rev. Professor Emmanuel Yao Nash, has commended the National Peace Council (NPC) for facilitating the signing of the 2024 Peace Pact by various political parties and their presidential candidates.

He also praised the candidates for their commitment to maintaining peace during the election period.

Twelve presidential candidates, including Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), have signed the Peace Pact. This act demonstrates their dedication to ensuring peace before, during, and after the December 7 elections.

Rev. Professor Nash described the NPC’s initiative as commendable, noting its potential to influence the thoughts, actions, and campaign strategies of the candidates and their supporters in the lead-up to the critical elections. He expressed hope that the candidates would uphold their commitment by adhering to electoral rules and guidelines for a peaceful process.

Call for Visa Restrictions on Politicians

Rev. Professor Nash, who also serves as CEO of the Ghana Leadership Awards, reiterated his appeal to embassies in Ghana to withhold visas for politicians, the Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson Jean Mensa, her deputies, and their families until after the elections. He further suggested that families of these officials should temporarily return to Ghana before the elections, stating that this measure would promote accountability and peace.

This proposal is based on a research project conducted by the Ghana Peace Awards organization, which aims to enhance peace in Ghana. Rev. Professor Nash highlighted that this recommendation has been implemented in several African and European countries, particularly by the U.S. Embassy, though without recognition of his organization as its originator.

In the context of the upcoming elections, the U.S. Embassy has already imposed visa restrictions on individuals who may attempt to undermine Ghana’s democracy.

Ensuring a Peaceful Election

Rev. Professor Nash also urged the Election Security Taskforce, the Electoral Commission, political parties, and the media to act responsibly in their roles to safeguard peace during the electoral process. He emphasized the importance of a transparent, free, and fair election that reflects the true will of the people.

He concluded with a prayer for a peaceful election, expressing optimism that Ghana would uphold its democratic reputation.