Ace broadcaster and host of A1 Radio’s flagship evening program, The Sunset Drive, Seidu Sulemana Akrugu, affectionately known as PhatBone De 5-Star General, has advised young people in the Upper East Region not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of violence before or after the elections.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of a peace walk organized by Eventz and More and its partners, with support from A1 Radio, Mr. Akrugu emphasized the importance of peace and unity among political leaders and their followers as Ghana heads to the polls.
“To the youth, the politicians would use people like you and me just because we are young and they feel we have so much strength that can be used to cause violence. Please, let’s stay out of violence. Do not let any politician use you. If you lose your life today, the politicians will still be there. Ask yourself, would they send their own children to cause trouble or violence?” he said.
Mr. Akrugu also called on politicians and political leaders to pursue political power with honesty. He explained that if political parties are transparent in their delivery and effectively communicate their strengths, policies, and programs to voters, there would be no need to resort to violence or chaos to win elections at the presidential or parliamentary levels.
The Sunset Drive host further urged his fellow broadcasters to be deliberate and cautious about the information they disseminate regarding the elections. He cautioned that publishing unverified or sensational content merely to gain attention could lead to harm.
“If, just because of traffic, you put anything out there, you can cause harm,” he stressed.
A1 Radio’s collaboration with Eventz and More was part of a collaborative effort between the station and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) under the “Countering Hate Speech and Polarizing Narratives to Foster Democratic Consolidation and Peace in Ghana” project.
The project aims to strengthen the electoral process by promoting tolerance and responsible information sharing.
The project seeks to educate the public on the importance of peaceful political discourse, counter divisive and toxic narratives, and foster inclusive dialogue, especially during the election period. It contributes to the broader goal of consolidating Ghana’s democracy and ensuring a peaceful electoral environment.
Source: A1 Radio Online | 101.1 MHz | Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith| Bolgatanga
