News
Make peace priority on election day
Reverend Dr Nicholas John Wood, Fellow and Dean of Regent’s Park College at the University of Oxford, has called on Ghanaians to approach the upcoming December elections with peace and respect for democratic principles.
Speaking at a conference, organised by the All Nations University College in Koforidua, on the theme: ‘Christian Faith in the Public Square,’ Dr Wood urged citizens to select their candidates and policies in a manner that upholds harmony in their communities.
Dr Wood emphasised the vital role of Christians and the church in fostering peace.
He encouraged them to actively engage in what he termed the ‘public square’ – a space encompassing law, governance, politics, culture, and society.
He urged believers to faithfully exercise their democratic rights in this sphere while respecting the diverse opinions and experiences of others.
“Advocating for policies or choosing a candidate should be done appropriately to ensure peace is maintained in the communities of the country,” he stated.
Reflecting on the challenges of political discourse, Dr Wood highlighted the importance of respectful disagreement.
“It is difficult in the public square to disagree, but where we agree, it is easy. Ghanaians should respect each other’s right to hold their own opinions, exercising their rights with grace and dignity, while allowing others to do the same,” he advised.
Addressing the Electoral Commission (EC), he likened their role to that of a referee, urging them to maintain public standards, ensure transparency, and uphold accountability.
Dr Wood further stressed the need for the EC to conduct free and fair elections while exercising their voting rights privately, like any other citizen.
On the role of the youth, he noted their passion and enthusiasm but cautioned against destructive behaviour.
“The youth have every right to express themselves, but they must also give room for other voices and avoid resorting to violence during and after elections,” he cautioned.
Moreover, Dr Wood underscored the connection between peace and national development, urging all stakeholders to prioritise the preservation of Ghana’s stability.
He called on Christians to lead the charge in promoting peace and ensuring the nation remains united during this crucial period.
The conference provided a platform to reflect on the intersection of faith and civic responsibility, emphasising the need for collective efforts to secure Ghana’s democratic values and peaceful coexistence.
From Ama Tekyiwaa Ampadu
Agyeman, Koforidua
News
Your historic feat will open more doors for women – Della Sowah to Prof. Naana Opoku- Agyemang
Member of Parliament for Kpando, Della Sowah has congratulated Vice President-Elect, Prof. Jane Naane Opoku Agyemang on her new position.
Prof.Jane Opoku-Agyemang following the declaration by the Electoral Commission on Monday, December 9, 2024, became Ghana’s first Female Vicd President.
Congratulating her, Della Sowah, in a press statement issued on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, she noted that this would open many doors for women in the country and beyond.
According to her, she has inspired many others and become an example for other women to push for the ultimate regardless.
Further applauding the Vice President-Elect, Della Sowah said, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang entered politics in 2013 as a Minister for Education under John Mahama’s presidency.
This, she said led to some significant impact in the country’s educational system.
The MP Kpando added that as a former Deputy Minister for the Gender ministry, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s election marks a monumental step for Ghana in promoting gender balance and equality.
According to her it is exemplary for the African continent and an inspiration for women that they could climb the ladder to the top wherever they find themselves.
She also commended President John Mahama and the National Democratic Congress leadership for reposing trust in Prof.Jane Opoku-Agyemang.
Della Sowah concluded by saying she is highly optimistic, the first Female Vice President will make a significant impact and leave a legacy.
News
Dr.Bawumia concedes defeat, congratulates John Mahama
The Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr.Mahamadu Bawumia has conceded defeat to John Dramani Mahama in the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections.
According to him, their internal collation reveals that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has won decisively.
Addressing the nation on Sunday morning, he said, “Let me say that the data from our own internal collation indicates that former President John Dramani Mahama has won the elections decisively and the NDC has also won Parliament.”
“I have just called His Execellency John Dramani Mahama, President Elect to Congratulate him ,” Dr.Mahamadu Bawumia revealed.
Read the statement below
“Ladies and gentlemen of the media, following yesterday’s presidential and Parliamentary elections, Ghanaians at home and abroad have been sitting on tenterhooks awaiting the outcome of the election.
Let me say that the data from our own internal coalition of the election results indicate that former President, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama has won the presidential election decisively.
The NDC has also won the parliamentary election even though we await a final coalition for a number of seats. However, I hope I believe ultimately that these will not change the overall outcome. I’ve just called His Excellency John Dramani Mahama to congratulate him as president-elect of the Republic of Ghana.
I said during the signing of the peace pact that I was sure of two things; Ghana will win and peace will reign. The people of Ghana have spoken. The people have voted for change at this time and we respect that decision with all humility.
I thank God almighty for how far he has brought me and I submit to His will. I am making this concession speech before the official announcement by the Electoral Commission to avoid further tension and preserve the peace of our country.
It is important that the world investor community continues to believe in the peaceful and democratic character of Ghana. These are our most important assets. Ghana is more important than our individual political ambitions and we must always put Ghana first.
We will take stock of events and pick lessons to guide us going forward. In the interim, I urge you all to look into the future with optimism and hope. We may have lost the battle that’s not the world. Let me also use this occasion to congratulate all MP’s elect with special emphasis on those from the NPP side. I would like to use this opportunity to thank His Excellency Nana Ado Dankwa Akuffo Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana and commander-in-chief of the Ghana armed forces for his support and guidance over the years.
I extend sincere thanks to the First lady Mrs Rebecca Akuffo Addo for her support and wise council throughout my tenure’s Vice President and during the 2024 electioneering campaign.
I’d like to thank my wife, Hajia Samira Bawumia, who has gone over and above the Call of Duty in her support for me. My thanks also go to my children, my brothers and sisters and the entire Bawumia family for their support.
I also thank my running mate Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh and his wife Alma for their strong support in this campaign. I am eternally grateful to our revered traditional rulers, religious leaders and the generality of Ghanaians for their support.
I thank former President Kuffour, the Council of Elders, executives and rank and file of the New Patriotic Party for their solid support.
To all Ghanaians who voted for me and the NPP to implement our proposed bold solutions. I thank you for the confidence you reposed in us. To all Ghanaians who didn’t vote for me and the NPP in this particular election, I thank you for considering my proposals even though you exercised your right to choose by settling on the eventual winner.
Let me also thank the Electoral Commission for overseeing yet another transparent and fair election in Ghana. I also thank the security services for their role in maintaining the peace. My thanks also go to the media for their excellent reportage. Ghana has won!
Thank you very much and may God bless you and God bless our homeland Ghana. Thank you!”
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
