Ghana has long been celebrated as a beacon of democracy in Africa. Since the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1992, the country has consistently demonstrated its commitment to democratic principles through peaceful and transparent elections.

However, events that characterised the 2020 election cast doubts on whether the 2024 polls will be peaceful and free of human rights violations.

In the last election, eight people tragically lost their lives in a bid to exercise their democratic rights. They died while either jubilating over their party’s victory in the polls or waiting for the votes to be collated and declared. Sadly, out of this number, five minors, comprising a 14-year-old, two 15-year-olds, a 16-year-old and a 17-year-old, were involved. 

The deaths of these individuals did not just mar the beauty of the past election but also left a profound sense of loss to the nation and the families of the deceased.

It has also tarnished Ghana’s enviable image of conducting peaceful elections. Given this, the Youth for Human Rights Council International (YHRCI) calls on all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and fair electoral process in the upcoming elections. 

On December 7, 2024, Ghana will go to the polls to elect a new president and Members of Parliament to oversee the state's affairs and its 275 constituencies. However, before the elections, various events have occurred that could potentially undermine the integrity and outcome of the electoral process.

Political parties are fervently determined to win the election and are committed to securing victory at the end of the democratic exercise. Some candidates have declared it a "do or die" affair.

The integrity of some key stakeholders, including the Electoral Commission, has been questioned ahead of the election. Some political parties, including the opposition National Democratic Congress, have lost trust in the EC and have also accused it of bias, incompetence, etc.

The judiciary has not been left out. It has also suffered its share of criticism from some political parties including the NDC, which has questioned its independence after President Akufo-Addo appointed the Chief Justice and Justices of the Supreme Court.

That notwithstanding, Youth for Human Rights International strongly believes that if stakeholders in Ghana’s upcoming election adhere to principles of transparency, fairness, and integrity, the exercise will be conducted smoothly and earn all citizens' confidence.

YHRI, therefore, urges all stakeholders to prioritize Ghana during the election period. The Electoral Commission must be professional in its operations to regain the trust and integrity of all stakeholders who have lost faith in it. The EC must remain fair and transparent in its dealings with all parties before, during and after elections.

Since it is the body tasked with conducting elections in the country, it is expected to operate with the highest level of professionalism and impartiality, ensuring that the principles of fairness and integrity guide all actions.

Political parties must be willing to sacrifice their interests for the country’s interests. They must accept the election outcome, provided it is free and fair, and resort to seeking redress over any grievances at the law courts as the NPP did after the 2012 elections and the NDC after the 2020 elections. Challenging the elections using violence should not be an option.

Election is not a “do or die” affair. It is a peaceful way of choosing leaders abd therefore must be treated as such. Political parties must encourage supporters to engage in peaceful and respectful campaigns, avoid inflammatory rhetoric and violence, and comply with electoral laws and regulations.

YHRCI further urges all voters to engage in the electoral process peacefully, respecting the rights of others to vote freely. They should also stay informed about their candidates, policies, and voting procedures to make informed decisions. Most importantly, they should actively report any observed irregularities or malpractices to the appropriate authorities.

Security agencies also have a crucial role to play in the upcoming elections. They must train adequately and ensure professionalism in their dealing. Security personnel should exercise restraint and avoid the immediate application of force. Their presence should reassure voters and maintain order without intimidation. The heartbreaking deaths of persons in the 2020 elections should not repeat itself.

The current administration must support the EC, refrain from interfering with the Commission’s work, ensure security, and uphold the rule of law throughout the electoral process. It must be willing to hand over power in case it loses the elections.

The media must also ensure fair and balanced coverage of all candidates and parties, avoiding bias and partisanship. It must also combat misinformation by fact-checking candidates' claims and providing the public with accurate information. The media must also educate the electorate about the electoral process, voting procedures, and the importance of peaceful participation.

CSOs should continue to monitor the electoral process, advocate for human rights, and provide voter education. Their role in holding stakeholders accountable is vital.

At the end of the polls, Ghana must still be the envy of most of its neighbours as the country with free and fair elections. International media houses must continue to refer to the polls as "boring" due to their peaceful and violence-free nature. The will of the people must be respected at the end of the polls. 

Let us all strive to protect and enhance Ghana's democratic heritage, ensuring that the 2024 elections serve as a proud testament to the nation's commitment to democracy, peace, and human rights.

Signed

Youth For Human Rights Council International.