Be mindful of your utterances, ahead of the 2024 general elections

The National Peace Council is urging political parties, their representatives and media practitioners to be mindful of their utterances, going into the December 7 general election. The Peace Council is raising concerns about the use of insults and tribal statements to score political points.

Ahead of the official launch of the campaign season, the Council wants parties, representatives and supporters, as well as the Media to desist from using words that can put the peace of the country under threat.

The Council, with support from Star Ghana Foundation and the British Council, held a workshop in Kumasi for stakeholders to dialogue on matters that may affect the peace of the country, going into the December 7 election.

Dr. Harriet Takyi, a member of the Peace Council stressed that, “We have diverse views, yet we need to express them in a much more peaceful way so that we understand ourselves and continue to live as Ghanaians. Particularly again with journalists, they should use language that will bring peace, not speech that will bring hate”.

In the lead-up to the December 7 2024 general election, the National Peace Council’s call for responsible and peaceful discourse among political parties, representatives and media practitioners is a timely reminder of the critical role each stakeholder plays in maintaining national peace and stability.

The Peace Council’s concern about the use of insults, tribal statements and hate speech to gain political advantage is not unfounded. In recent times, political rhetoric has at times crossed the line into divisiveness, fostering a climate of tension and mistrust among citizens. Such behavior not only undermines the democratic process but also poses a threat to the unity and cohesion of our nation.

It is commendable that the Peace Council, with support from organisations like Star Ghana Foundation and the British Council has taken proactive measures to engage stakeholders in dialogue.

In any democracy, differing opinions are inevitable and healthy, but they must be communicated in a manner that promotes understanding and tolerance. The media, in particular, plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse and it is imperative that journalists adhere to ethical standards that prioritise peace-building over sensationalism.

Also, the call for the youth to refrain from vigilantism is equally vital. Political violence has no place in a democratic society and all efforts must be made to discourage and prevent any form of destructive behavior that threatens the peace and security of our nation.

The Chronicle urges all stakeholders, especially political actors and the media to uphold the highest standards of responsible communication. Let us engage in robust debates and discussions without resorting to inflammatory language or actions that sow seeds of discord.

We call on political parties to prioritise issue-based campaigns, focusing on policies and solutions that address the needs of the people. It is through constructive dialogue and mutual respect that we can build a stronger, more united Ghana.

 

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