A delegation from the West African Elders Forum (WAEF), led by former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, arrived in Accra, Ghana, on Wednesday, ahead of the country’s general elections set for December 7, 2024. The mission aims to observe the electoral process and ensure it remains peaceful, free, and transparent.
In a statement from WAEF’s Communications Officer, Wealth Dickson Ominabo, Jonathan emphasized the importance of patriotism and unity in ensuring a smooth election. He called on the people of Ghana to uphold their commitment to democracy, highlighting the country’s history of peaceful political transitions as a beacon for other African nations.
“The upcoming elections present another opportunity for Ghanaians to reinforce their dedication to democracy, stability, and development,” Jonathan said upon his arrival in Ghana. He commended Ghana’s continued adherence to democratic principles and urged citizens to protect these values by participating in the electoral process.
The WAEF delegation, which includes former Burkinabe Prime Minister and ECOWAS President Kadre Ouedraogo, Executive Director of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation Ann Iyonu, and Jonathan’s Special Adviser Ikechukwu Eze, also met with Ghana’s electoral authorities. Jonathan called on the Electoral Commission of Ghana and security agencies to remain independent, neutral, and committed to upholding the credibility of the election.
“We encourage the Electoral Commission to uphold its mandate of conducting free and fair elections, ensuring transparency to build trust among the electorate,” he stated.
Jonathan further urged all political parties and candidates to maintain peaceful campaigns, free from hate speech and personal attacks. He called on the youth and party supporters to avoid violence and intimidation during the election period, advocating for dispute resolution through lawful and constitutional channels.
Jonathan concluded his remarks by reminding Ghanaians of their important role in safeguarding the country’s democratic legacy. “By working together, Ghanaians can assert their position as a model of democracy built on a tradition of peaceful, free, fair, and transparent elections,” he said.
