John Ayimbire Adongo, a member of the Upper East Peace Committee, has called for greater tolerance, empathy, and nonviolence during the upcoming elections. He stressed that acceptance and mutual respect are vital for ensuring peace and harmony in society, particularly during the election period.
“We need to tolerate and accept each other,” he said.
Mr. Adongo emphasized the importance of respecting all lives, explaining that when individuals value their own lives, they are less likely to harm others. He urged voters to approach the polls with peaceful intentions, leaving behind any harmful tools or weapons that could escalate tensions. He encouraged voters to focus on their civic duty with civility and avoid any actions that could incite violence.
“If I respect my life and I know that doing something harmful could harm me, I don’t think I’ll do the same to a colleague,” he said. “When we are going out to vote, let’s focus on voting. Don’t go to the voting center with arms or carry anything harmful to another human being. Just go there with your thumb.”
He also highlighted the need for empathy and compassion, urging people to protect not only their own lives but also the lives of others. According to him, elections should not be seen as a victory for a single political party but as a collective achievement for the nation, deserving celebration.
“Let us keep in mind that our lives come first, and we must also protect our brother’s life. Don’t bring negativity into the process,” he added.
As election results are being counted, Mr. Adongo called for calm and urged those present to respect boundaries and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on electoral officials. He reminded citizens to trust the electoral process and the trained officials overseeing it, reinforcing the importance of maintaining peace for a smooth and fair election.
“Let’s be civil. Be there to observe what the officials are doing because they have been trained for this work,” he said. “Let us trust the electoral officers to carry out their duties responsibly. That is why they have been entrusted with this role.”
“I don’t think there’s another word that can replace peace. We all need it, so let’s open our arms and embrace it,” he concluded.
Source: A1 Radio Online | 101.1 MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
