The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in the Kpando District has appealed to political parties to prioritise peace in their campaigns as Ghana approaches the 2024 general elections.

This call was made during an Inter-Party Dialogue Committee meeting organised by the commission, where political stakeholders gathered to discuss ways to ensure a peaceful electoral process in the municipality and the nation.

Speaking at the event, the Kpando Municipal Director of the NCCE, Richard Asilevi, emphasised the importance of safeguarding Ghana's longstanding peace and stability.

He cautioned that posterity would judge the nation harshly if it fails to preserve the harmony that has been a hallmark of Ghanaian society.

“Before the advent of Western democracy, our traditional leaders ruled with peace and unity at the core of governance. The democratic system we adopted was meant to complement this foundation, not disrupt it. It is imperative that we remain true to these values during and beyond the 2024 elections,” Mr Asilevi said.

The event also featured remarks from other notable figures, including Eric Agbodeka, a member of the NCCE in the district.

Mr Agbodeka urged residents to live in unity and harmony, reminding them of the unique identity Ghana holds as a peaceful nation in the West African sub-region.

“Ghana is our only home. We must protect it by maintaining peace in our interactions and relationships. Unity and harmony are the bedrock of our progress,” Mr Agbodeka added.

Echoing similar sentiments, the Volta Regional Director of the NCCE, Ken Kponor, highlighted the crucial role citizens and the media play in preserving national peace.

He encouraged journalists to use their platforms to promote messages of peace and non-violence.

“The media must act as custodians of peace, ensuring their reports foster understanding and tolerance. Kind words and constructive dialogue can protect the stability we are known for in the subregion,” Mr Kponor said.

Traditional leaders present at the meeting reinforced the importance of peace, urging political parties and citizens to emulate Ghana's history of non-violent elections.

Chiefs in the Kpando municipality called for mutual respect and tolerance, emphasising their commitment to ensuring their communities remain havens of peace.

In a significant move, representatives of the various political parties in the municipality pledged to conduct their campaigns peacefully and to discourage their followers from engaging in acts of violence or provocation.

They assured the NCCE and residents of their resolve to prioritize the unity and stability of Ghana above partisan interests.

The Inter-Party Dialogue Committee meeting in Kpando forms part of a nationwide initiative by the NCCE to promote peaceful elections. With political tensions often high during election seasons, such efforts aim to remind all stakeholders of their collective responsibility to uphold Ghana’s democracy and peace.

The meeting concluded with a strong consensus that peace is non-negotiable. Participants resolved to continue engaging their followers, communities, and media platforms to ensure Ghana remains a beacon of hope and stability in Africa.