The Chairman of NDC Council of Elders in South Africa, Mr. Benjamin Kofi Quashie has admonished election stakeholders in Ghana and South Africa, to make the citizens their utmost priority in their democratic process as the two countries go to the polls this year.
Whilst South Africa is expected to elect their next leader at the end of May, Ghanaians will chose their next president in December.
He emphasized, “We cannot afford to let violence, intimidation, or manipulation mar the electoral process. Our commitment to upholding the rule of law and respecting democratic principles is what sets us apart as a society that values peace and progress.”
Speaking as a Special Guest of Honour at the 2024 International Peace Summit on Monday, South Africa, Mr. Quashie acknowledged what he termed “several commonalities” between the two countries, dating several years back, which behooves on each to look out and support each other not to fail.
The Summit was organized by the International Ambassadors of Peace Network under the theme: “Promoting Peace, Security, Development Nexus, Before, During and after Election”.
Extending the warm regards of Ghana’s former President John Mahama to the gathering, the Council of Elders Chairman observed that the ballot box provides the power to the citizens to shape the destiny of their nations.
“It is therefore important that we do everything possible to ensure that our people are able to go through the process of election seamlessly without any eventualities. For this to happen, institutions that play very important roles in the provision of security and in the supervision of the elections should, bear in mind that they are servants of the people, work diligently to ensure a smooth, transparent process,” Mr. Benjamin Quashie stated.
“So, for us Ghanaians, to wish South Africa well is to wish ourselves well, because when South Africa prospers, we prosper. This was true yesterday, and even truer today,” he underscored in reference to Dr. Nkrumah’s famous quote about the meaningless of Ghana’s independence if not linked to the total liberation of countries in Africa.
He also admonished the gathering to reflect on the turbulent waters South Africa waded through during the apartheid, noting that the country was able to triumph due to the power of unity, forgiveness, and the unwavering belief in a better tomorrow.
“Before the election, we must acknowledge the importance of fostering an environment of inclusivity, mutual respect, and dialogue. It is during this time that tensions often run high, and divisions within communities can deepen. As responsible citizens, it is our duty to engage in meaningful conversations that seek to bridge these divides and build bridges of understanding. Without peace and a sense of security, the very foundation of our democracy is at risk of crumbling,” the Council of Elders Chairman stressed.
He added, “As the echoes of history reverberate through the corridors of time, I urge all of us here gathered and the great nation of South Africa as a whole to stand shoulder to shoulder, hand in hand, as guardians of our democracy, champions of justice and fairness, and as stewards of peace before, during, and long after the elections. Let us build bridges across political divides here in South Africa, forge alliances across borders as comrades in Africa and beyond, and march forward as one people towards a brighter, more prosperous democratic Africa for all.”
Mr. Benjamin Quashie also praised the International Ambassadors of Peace Network (IAPN) for their unwavering dedication to promoting harmony and collaboration globally.
“Your tireless efforts in bridging cultural divides and fostering unity among nations are truly praiseworthy. I must also add, that a summit such as this, held before election, is very crucial in promoting dialogue among all stakeholders, ensuring the renewal of our commitment to peace in our effort to entrench the democratic credentials of this beautiful country.”
Mr. Quashie was sworn in as an international peace ambassador and is expected to collaborate with the international peace network South African Chapter to facilitate peace education and awareness among the people of South Africa, particularly focusing on promoting peace during and after the 2024 elections.
