The Okyenhene Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin has assured that, despite the warmongering by some politicians ahead of the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections, the citizens will demonstrate civility before, during, and after the elections.
He made these remarks during the Okyeman Nifa Royal durbar in his honor, as part of the ongoing activities to commemorate his 25th Anniversary celebration.
“We have done this (elections) before. We have voted from 1992 till now. Ghana will not be turned upside down this time; it will be peaceful. Ghana won’t descend into civil war as some have suggested. We are civilized; peace will prevail,” he said.
He emphasized that the country has conducted several successful elections under the Fourth Republic, with higher stakes from 1992 to date, and these have all been peaceful.
The Okyenhene urged losing candidates to accept defeat in good faith and advised voters to exercise their rights responsibly in the 2024 election.
“Accept defeat in good faith. Just take a chilled beer and sleep. To the voters, go all out and vote, vote for people who will help improve your livelihood,” he urged.
Recently, members of both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and National Democratic Party (NDC) have engaged in heated arguments stemming from a statement by the Agric Minister, Bryan Acheampong, on doing everything possible to hold onto power. This was followed by a reaction from NDC operative James Agbey, who claimed they had “the men” to counter such efforts.
Subsequently the NDC leadership indicated they will not be part of a peace pact.
The NPP defended Bryan Acheampong, arguing that his words were taken out of context by the NDC. According to the NPP, Acheampong’s statement was not a threat to democracy but rather a commitment to ensuring that the NPP would not be complacent in the 2024 elections and would work hard to retain power.
The NDC, however, claims that the NPP’s defense of the statement lacks credibility.
The exchange between the NPP and NDC highlights the growing tension between the two parties as the 2024 elections approach.
Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin also urged his subjects and Ghanaians to cultivate the heart of forgiveness and love for one another. He also reminded public servants to exhibit the spirit of patriotism and selflessness.
By Yvonne Neequaye
