President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reassured Ghanaians and African leaders of his government’s unwavering dedication to a transparent and peaceful elections as the nation approaches its next general election.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Deputy Majority Leader and MP for Asokwa, Patricia Appiagyei, at the second General Assembly of the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (CoSPAL), the President emphasized Ghana’s legacy as a ‘beacon of democracy’ and the importance of preserving it.
He stated, “In this election year, I want to reaffirm my government’s absolute commitment to ensuring that these elections are conducted peacefully, transparently, and with the utmost respect for the democratic rights of every Ghanaian.”
“Ghana has long stood as a beacon of democracy on our continent, and it is our collective duty to maintain this legacy for generations to come.”
President Akufo-Addo also underscored the collaborative efforts underway, including partnerships with the Electoral Commission, security agencies, and other stakeholders, aimed at creating a safe and interference-free environment for all voters.
According to him, the administration’s commitment to free, fair, and peaceful elections is not just a mark of its governance but foundational to Ghana’s democratic values.
He stressed that democracy is not merely a political system but the lifeblood of the continent’s future and a process of participation, inclusion, and mutual respect among its people.
The President noted that as Africans strengthen their institutions and work to ensure transparency and accountability, they cement the foundations upon which Africa’s future will be built.
“In Ghana, we are proud of our strides toward deepening democracy and upholding the sacred trust placed in us by our citizens. Our achievements are not isolated; they are part of a broader African story of resilience, innovation, and progress.”
“We understand that free, fair, and peaceful elections are not merely a reflection of governmental integrity but the foundation of our democratic values. Our standing as a model of democracy is not by chance; it is a legacy earned through dedication, resilience, and a firm commitment to upholding justice, equality, and freedom,” he stated.
Speaking on the CoSPAL, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the role of legislative cooperation and democratic governance across Africa and the need to discuss strategies for enhancing democracy, stability, and economic growth.
Africa, he said, has made great strides in democratic governance, yet we continue to face serious challenges, from political instability to health crises and called for unity in tackling these issues.
CoSPAL, he said, serves as a movement – uniquely positioned to unite legislative processes in Africa and foster a shared framework for best practices in governance across borders.
In a nod to Ghana’s historical significance, the President added, “This assembly, held in the heart of Accra—a city steeped in history as the birthplace of African independence and a beacon of democracy—is an essential opportunity to reflect on our progress and chart the path forward.”
He urged CoSPAL to serve as a vanguard for developing legislative frameworks that protect democratic rights and encourage African unity.
“We must strive for a borderless and boundless approach in addressing Africa’s issues. I firmly believe that CoSPAL will achieve remarkable success by promoting legislative practices that transcend national interests and focus on Africa’s collective wellbeing,” said Akufo-Addo.
The President paid tribute to key leaders involved in establishing CoSPAL, including Nigeria’s Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Ghana’s Hon. Prof. Mike Oquaye, Kenya’s Hon. Tagesse Chaffo, and Rwanda’s H.E. Donatille Mukabalisa, among others. He expressed optimism for CoSPAL’s continued impact under the guidance of Ghana’s Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin.