Former President John Dramani Mahama assured the West African Elders Forum, a prominent mediation body, that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) would prioritize the peace of the country during the upcoming general elections.
He stated that the party was committed to maintaining peace and urged the Forum to engage all relevant stakeholders, particularly the Electoral Commission (EC), to avoid bias and ensure that the elections were free and fair.
Mr Mahama, who is the Flagbearer of the NDC, gave the assurance when a high-profile pre-election assessment delegation from the Forum, led by Mr Goodluck Jonathan, Former President of Nigeria, paid a courtesy call on him at his office in Accra on Monday.
The Forum’s mediation efforts are part of a broader objective to prevent election-related conflicts in the region.
Mr. Mahama told the delegation that the posture of the EC and the issues with the Voters’ Register were among the issues of concern.
“We all want a peaceful election, but a peaceful election is predicated on the groundwork and the preparation that is done before the election.
“I am sure that if we get everything right in the lead up to the election, then the election will be peaceful and successful.
“We (NDC) are committed to a peaceful election, and we believe that if we cooperate with each other, especially with the EC, we should be able to get it right again,” he said.
Mr. Jonathan commended Ghana for its democratic credentials and sustaining peace in all previous elections.
He said elections were major source of conflicts in the region and expressed confidence that Ghana would go through another election peacefully.
Mr. Jonathan stated that the Forum’s mediation role was aimed at ensuring that elections are conducted properly and that regional and international protocols governing elections are adhered to, to prevent conflicts.
“Ghana is so far one of the countries that has been conducting elections that has not led to excessive violence. Compared to most African countries Ghana is on the positive side and a good example of the practice of democracy.
“We are very hopeful that even the next election will go the same way,” he said.
GNA