The African Union (AU) High Representative for Silencing the Guns and the Chairman of the AU High-Level Panel, Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, has called on political leaders and citizens to resolve conflicts through dialogue and peaceful means.
Speaking in an interview on Election Day- December 7, Dr. Chambas urged the population to prioritize peace and reminded them of the critical role unity plays in strengthening democracy.
“Silence the guns through dialogue, peace pacts, and by reminding the population that peace is the foundation of progress,” Dr. Chambas emphasized.
The former United Nations Special Representative reiterated the importance of maintaining calm and fostering an environment where disputes are addressed constructively.
He encouraged political actors to embrace peace pacts as a commitment to non-violence and to resolve disagreements through established legal frameworks.
“Dialogue is the most effective weapon in any democratic society. Political competition should never escalate into violence or chaos. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to uphold Ghana’s legacy as a peaceful nation,” Dr. Chambas said.
As Ghanaians flock to polling stations, Dr. Chambas reminded the population that peaceful elections are a collective responsibility. He stressed the need for citizens to resist provocations and urged security forces to exercise restraint and neutrality.
He also commended past efforts by Ghanaian leaders and civil society to broker peace during electoral seasons, adding that such initiatives have solidified the country’s reputation as a stable democracy.
Dr. Chambas concluded with a plea for political leaders to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and instead work together to promote unity.
With voting underway, Dr. Chambas’ message serves as a timely reminder of the importance of dialogue and peaceful engagement in safeguarding Ghana’s democracy.
