The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama has advised electorates and all stakeholders to ensure peace ahead of the December polls.

Speaking at an event to sign a Presidential Election Peace Pact, he said, “elections are about counting heads and not cutting heads.”

Mr Mahama cautioned voters to be law-abiding and refrain from acts of violence citing the incident of the 2019 Ayawaso West Wuohon bye-elections.

“Let us strive to prevent the violence of the past, particularly as witnessed in early 2019 during the Ayawaso West Wuogon bye-elections, which till date has gone unpunished.”

The former President indicated that recent events under the Akufo-Addo-led government have given many anxious moments of doubt about this administration’s ability to deliver a peaceful and violence-free election

He said, "The loss of three lives in the course of a regular voter registration exercise also gives cause for worry."

Mr Mahama added, "The military siege of the Volta Region and other locations during the registration exercise created an intimidatory atmosphere akin to a nation at war."

However, he believes that despite the fear, he is hopeful that electorates will adhere and abide by the electoral rules and ensure a peaceful poll.

He said "we are optimistic. In the face of similar doubts in the past, Ghanaians have risen to the occasion and delivered peaceful elections.

"It is my prayer that despite our deepest fears we shall be proved wrong and Ghana will once again be proven to be the beacon of democracy in Africa," he emphasises.

Mr Mahama also called on the media and other stakeholders to be objective in their reportage to deliver an outcome that is fair, transparent and in the National Interest

“Our country stands at a critical juncture of history. Never have the lives of so many depended on the power of a thumb. Now more than ever, we need the institutions of our democracy to work impartially to deliver an outcome that is fair, transparent and in the National Interest,

The Electoral Commission, the Judiciary, the Security Services and the media hold the future of our nation in their hands.” He added.

The pact which was signed in Accra on Friday will see both candidates agree to seek redress through the judicial process in the event of any electoral dispute.

At the event, President Akufo-Addo and John Mahama pledged to uphold and preserve the stability of the country during and after the polls.