The Ho West District Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) on Wednesday, 4th September 2024, inaugurated the Inter-Party Dialogue Committee (IPDC) at Pentecost Church, Dzolokpuita. The meeting aimed to foster constructive dialogue and collaboration among political parties in Ho West, focusing on issues likely to affect the upcoming elections. This year’s theme is “Together We Can Build Ghana, so Get Involved.”
Addressing the participants, Mr. Dodzi Adjei, the Ho West District Director of the NCCE, emphasized the critical role of stakeholders in advocating for peace before, during, and after the elections. He highlighted the importance of identifying and countering false information that can undermine the electoral process, encouraging religious tolerance, avoiding hate speech and incitement, promoting peaceful participation, and preventing any form of violence.
Mr. Adjei urged political parties to use their platforms to promote messages of peace and unity to their followers. He also advised them to adhere to the Public Order Act, Act (491), by notifying the police whenever they wanted to embark on any activities.
Sgt. Manfred Asempapah, representing the District Police Commander, spoke about election hotspots within the district and the dedication of the Police Service to provide maximum security to ensure a safe environment for all during the elections. He emphasized the need for political actors to play their part in maintaining peace and order by implementing measures that prevent violence and promote peaceful elections.
The District Director of the Electoral Commission, Madam Kafui Randolph, briefed participants on the commission’s preparations for the 2024 elections. She stressed that accurate information is crucial to preventing misinformation or disinformation, reducing the chances of disputes on election day. She encouraged political parties to adhere to the electoral code of conduct and work closely with the commission to ensure free, transparent, fair, and peaceful elections.
Rev. Emmanuel Agbo was elected as Chairperson of the Committee, with Mr. Richmond Parker of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) as Vice Chairperson, the District Director of NCCE as Secretary, and other representatives from political parties, traditional authorities, the Electoral Commission, women and youth groups, persons living with disabilities, the District Police Service, and Christian and Muslim faiths as members of the committee. Their role is to contribute to achieving free, fair, and violence-free elections.
In his speech, the Chairman of the Committee, Rev. Emmanuel Agbo, called for collaborative efforts from all members to ensure peaceful harmony during the elections.
The IPDC meeting was a significant step toward ensuring a peaceful and orderly election in the Ho West District. The engagement of key stakeholders and their commitment to promoting peace and unity are expected to contribute positively to the electoral process in 2024.
Source: ISD, Ho West District
