In a critical move ahead of Ghana’s December 7 presidential elections, Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and former President John Dramani Mahama have signed a peace pact, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring a peaceful and democratic electoral process. The peace agreement, also endorsed by 10 other presidential candidates or their representatives, aims to foster a calm and orderly election environment, free from violence and unrest.
The pact was signed under the watchful eye of Chief Justice Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, marking a moment of unity in Ghana’s often competitive political landscape. The candidates’ signatures symbolize a shared responsibility to uphold peace during the lead-up to the elections and throughout the electoral period.
Dr. Bawumia, representing the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), took the opportunity to emphasize his dedication to conducting a law-abiding campaign. “I am fully committed to running my campaign within the boundaries of Ghana’s laws,” he stated. “This peace pact is a commitment to all Ghanaians, and I believe that together, we can ensure that the election remains peaceful and free from disruption.”
His main rival, John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of collaboration across all political parties and stakeholders. “Peace is a collective responsibility, and we must all work together to ensure the elections are free, fair, and peaceful,” Mahama declared. “We owe it to ourselves and future generations to safeguard the peace we have long enjoyed.”
The signing ceremony, organized by the National Peace Council (NPC) and the Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG), comes as part of a long-standing initiative to promote peace ahead of elections. This year’s pact was centered on the theme “Promoting Peaceful Elections, Non-Violence, and Justice.” This marks the fourth such pact organized by NPC and IDEG, following similar efforts in 2012, 2016, and 2020.
The event was attended by notable figures, including Jean Mensa, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), and Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, the Inspector General of Police, who both pledged their respective institutions’ full support in maintaining electoral integrity and security. Also present was the Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, along with Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas, the African Union High Representative for Silencing the Guns, emphasizing regional support for Ghana’s peaceful election process.
In his speech, Dr. Bawumia described peace as the cornerstone of Ghana’s democratic success. He called for continued unity, stating that despite the contentious nature of elections, Ghana has consistently managed to rise above political differences. “Peace is the foundation of our democracy, and we must work together to ensure that our elections reflect the values of unity and progress,” he said.
Former President Mahama, while supportive of the peace pact, cautioned that the true measure of success would not be found in words alone but in actions that demonstrate fairness, transparency, and accountability. He pointed to past incidents of election-related violence, such as the 2019 Ayawaso Wuogon by-election, as reminders that peace cannot be guaranteed without tangible efforts to address electoral concerns.
“Committing to peace is not enough,” Mahama warned. “We must ensure that these efforts are followed by concrete actions that build trust and confidence in the electoral process. Without sincerity and transparency, all peace-building efforts will be in vain.”
Critical stakeholders also provided assurances that they would continue to work diligently toward ensuring a peaceful election. Chief Justice Torkornoo reiterated the judiciary’s commitment to resolving any electoral disputes fairly and efficiently. “The judiciary will administer all processes related to electoral disputes with the utmost professionalism, in line with Ghana’s constitution,” she affirmed.
Jean Mensa, the EC Chairperson, highlighted the commission’s ongoing efforts to ensure transparency in the electoral process, stressing that inclusivity and responsiveness had been central to their preparations. “We will continue to uphold these principles throughout the election period,” she stated, adding that these efforts had already helped reduce tension across the country.
Dr. Dampare, the Inspector General of Police, outlined the police force’s detailed security plan for the elections, ensuring that comprehensive security measures would be in place before, during, and after the elections. “We are fully prepared to maintain law and order throughout the election process and ensure that the will of the people is respected,” he concluded.
The peace pact and the reassurances from the key institutions involved signal a collective effort to ensure that Ghana’s 2024 presidential election remains peaceful, transparent, and credible.
