Deport families of politicians, EC Chair, IGP and top security officials until elections are over – Rev. Prof. Nash to embassies

The leadership of the Ghana Peace Awards (GPA) has called on various embassies in Ghana to expedite the deportation of the immediate families of top politicians, the Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), and other high-ranking security officials ahead of Ghana’s December 7 general elections.

Rev. Professor Emmanuel Yao Nash, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GPA, explained that bringing these families back to Ghana would encourage the officials to prioritize peace and democracy during the electoral process.

"Politicians and key officials would do anything to protect their families. By ensuring their presence in Ghana, we can deter actions that might jeopardize the country's peace and stability before, during, and after the elections," he stated.

Addressing a press conference in Accra, Rev. Professor Nash reiterated his appeal for embassies to deny visas to top politicians, the EC Chairperson and her deputies, the IGP, the National Security Minister, the Interior Minister, and the Defense Minister. He argued that such measures would compel these individuals to act responsibly and ensure that the elections are peaceful, free, fair, and transparent.

The press conference, held under the theme “Government of the People, By the People, and For the People,” was organized in collaboration with the Ghana Leadership Awards, Dayspring Gospel Church, Stability Foundation International, and the Global Economic Forum.

Rev. Professor Nash also called on the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to guarantee uninterrupted power supply across the country throughout the election period to prevent suspicions of vote manipulation.

Additionally, he emphasized the need for the Electoral Commission to demonstrate vigilance and transparency in managing the election process, ensuring that the final results are credible and reflect the will of the people.

He urged security agencies, particularly the IGP and the 2024 election taskforce, to act with professionalism in maintaining peace and order. "The role of security agencies in safeguarding the electoral process cannot be overstated. Professionalism is critical for fostering trust and ensuring a peaceful environment," he noted.

Turning his attention to the media, Rev. Professor Nash challenged journalists to prioritize peace and democracy in their reportage. He cautioned against sensationalism and urged the media to focus on accurate, balanced, and fact-checked reporting rather than prioritizing speed. "Misinformation and disinformation must be avoided at all costs, as they can fan tensions during this critical period," he advised.

Rev. Professor Nash also urged the Electoral Commission and security agencies to prevent a repeat of the tragic incidents from the 2020 elections, during which eight innocent people were killed, and justice for their families remains elusive. "The reputation of the 2024 elections must not be tainted by similar occurrences," he stressed.

The GPA CEO concluded by calling for collective responsibility from all stakeholders, emphasizing that peace, accountability, and fairness are essential to safeguarding Ghana’s democracy and ensuring a credible electoral process.