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The Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Seth Kwame Acheampong, has called on religious and traditional leaders to promote peace as the country approaches the upcoming general elections.
He said opinion leaders were crucial stakeholders in ensuring peace and stability of the country.
Mr Acheampong, who is also Chairman of the Eastern Regional Security Council (RESEC), made the appeal at a meeting with Christian religious leaders, Muslim clerics, and traditional authorities, in Akim Oda, last Friday.
The meeting followed RESEC’s tour of the region’s 33 municipalities and districts, aimed at engaging stakeholders on ways to maintain peace before, during and after the elections.
The minister expressed concern about rising tensions as a result of divisive language in the media that could undermine peace in the country.
Mr Acheampong called on religious organisations to use their platforms to preach peace to congregants.
“As a regional security body, we have been monitoring the situation, and it is important for us to engage with all stakeholders to ensure that the peace we have enjoyed remains intact,” he said.
Mr Acheampong reminded the people that every citizen has the right to join any political party or association of their choice, as per the country’s Constitution.
However, he urged citizens to exercise their freedom responsibly, and avoid inflammatory rhetoric or actions that could incite violence.
“Elections should be about expressing different opinions respectfully, without infringing on others’ rights,” Mr Acheampong said.
He said the national election task force, chaired by the Inspector General of Police has been formed to ensure peace during the elections.
“We want you to remind your people that peace is costly but brings comfort, and that voting should not lead to conflict or violence,” Mr Acheampong said.
Alhaji Sulemana Adamu, the Akim Oda Zongo Chief and Dagomba Chief, said that the youth in the Zongo community had been advised against violence.
He said “We have told them that no one will plead for them if they get involved in violence,” he said.
The Omanhene of Akyem Kotoku, Oseeadeayo Dr Frimpong Manso, emphasized the importance of peace for national development.
The Paramount Chief of Akyem Bosome, Okotwaasuo Kantamanto Owarae Agyemkum II, also pledged to work toward promoting peace in his area.
