The British High Commissioner Harriet Thompson has expressed fears that the upcoming 2024 elections might not maintain the peaceful reputation of past polls.

Speaking at the King’s Birthday celebration in Accra on Thursday, she noted that recent conversations with local leaders and citizens alike have brought to light growing fears of potential unrest.

“Unfortunately, my colleagues and I are frequently told by a range of people that they fear Ghana’s 2024 elections will be less peaceful than previous elections,” Ms Thompson stated.

This apprehension, she warned, should not be taken lightly.

“An election that’s not peaceful would be incredibly damaging for Ghana, as well as dangerous, of course, for those directly involved,” she added, underlining the stakes for the country’s democratic fabric.

Ms Thompson called on Ghanaian politicians and influential figures to actively advocate for peaceful and transparent elections.

“The good thing is that politicians and others in influential positions…can prevent this from happening,” she emphasised.

Addressing the attendees, many of whom hold considerable influence in Ghanaian society, she urged, “I urge all of you with influence to do all you can to ensure that Ghana has credible, transparent, inclusive, and peaceful elections.”

Ms Thompson also underscored the UK’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s democracy through funding independent observers and deploying British High Commission staff across the country to monitor electoral activities.

She stressed, “The UK cares so deeply about Ghana’s democracy and future success because of the democratic values that we share,” adding that the stability of both nations could be mutually beneficial.