Although general and parliamentary elections in the Upper East Region have historically been peaceful, the stakes for the 2024 elections are exceptionally high. The combination of heightened political tensions and the region’s ongoing conflicts—often exploited for political gain—leaves no room for complacency.
“We have not had many recorded issues of violence historically. But we are mindful that we have intractable issues around us. We are also mindful that there is nowhere for us to run in the event of violence because Burkina Faso has its own issues to deal with,” said Joseph Bangu, Director for Good Governance, Justice, and Peace at the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Catholic Diocesan Development Organization (NABOCADO).
Mr. Bangu made these comments on A1 Radio during the Interfaith Advocacy Network and Regional Stakeholders Forum engagement on Peaceful Election 2024 in Ghana.
He disclosed that during early dialogue among stakeholders, political parties expressed serious concerns regarding the actions and inactions of some state and non-state actors, and the potential impact on their political outcomes.
“One party is saying that in some areas, there is a lot of restriction on us, and our people cannot come and vote. [They said], our party members cannot even come out to use our paraphernalia. Another party said that the institutions expected to create a level playing field do not seem to be doing so. [They ask], if you look at the election task force, what are they doing? Are they giving a fair ground for all? The issues around transparency came up,” he explained.
Mr. Bangu noted that the issues raised during the dialogue have been forwarded to the appropriate authorities for resolution.
“What we do is escalate these concerns. There are some issues at your level that you cannot handle. The last meeting we had, the Vicar-General, assistant to the Bishop, picked up all the issues that came up, and I am sure they will escalate them further,” he added.
Mr. Bangu also identified the youth as key stakeholders in ensuring peace before and after the elections.
“The roles are now changing, and the youth are the gatekeepers. If they, the youth, say there will be no violence, truly, there will be no violence,” he said.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1MHz | Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith | Bolgatanga
