In just two weeks, Ghanaians will head to the polls, contributing to or challenging our democratic legacy—a story that has inspired many across Africa and drawn global attention to our shores. On December 7, over 18 million registered voters will cast their ballots to elect a president and 276 parliamentarians, continuing a tradition upheld every four years since our return to democratic governance in 1992.
For decades, Ghana’s journey has been one of resilience, democracy, and unity. Our history reflects a rich tapestry of diversity, earning us a reputation as a beacon of stability and peace. This legacy shines most brightly in how we navigate the often intense passions of political engagements, particularly during elections. As we approach another poll, one message must resonate above all: peace over power.
While our elections and democratic governance have faced challenges, our commitment to peacefully electing leaders and transitioning power between the two main political parties has fostered coexistence and progress. December 7, 2024, must strengthen this legacy—not diminish it.
Elections Are Not Battlegrounds
Ghana's status as Africa’s democratic leader is not mere rhetoric. It is a profound reality reflected in our social fabric, economic achievements, educational strides, and technological advancements. This peace has earned the trust of global partners like the IMF and World Bank and attracted a wave of African diasporans, including Black Americans who now call Ghana home. This legacy is a treasure we must protect.
Elections are not battlegrounds; they are opportunities to choose leadership. They allow every citizen to express their vision for Ghana’s future through the ballot. This process must be guided by dialogue, tolerance, and respect—not chaos, violence, or hatred. If elections are ever a battle, it should be an intellectual contest of ideas for advancing our nation—not a clash of insults, violence, or intimidation.
As December 7 approaches, the debate should focus on policies like the 24-hour economy versus flat-rate tax schemes championed by former President John Mahama and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia. Let it remain an academic contest, not a divisive or destructive one.
A Call to Action
The scars of political violence are evident worldwide, with devastating consequences that often plunge nations into chaos. Ghana cannot afford such a gamble. We have shown that peaceful elections are possible, and the world believes in us. Our progress depends on resisting division and hostility.
However, peace is not automatic—it requires collective effort. Citizens, political actors, the Electoral Commission, civil society organizations, the clergy, traditional leaders, and the media all share the responsibility of safeguarding democracy. We must reject incendiary speech, tribalism, misinformation, and violence to protect our unity.
Honouring Our History
Young Ghanaians must channel their energy and passion into preserving the peace that has defined our nation. Ghana belongs to all of us, and we must defend it against selfish interests. Let us rally behind the red, yellow, green, and black of our national flag, upholding the principles of democracy as we seek accountability, justice, and integrity after the polls.
By choosing peace, we honor our past, our identity, and our potential as a nation. Another peaceful election will reinforce our position as a model for Africa. Ghana’s strength lies in its people and our shared commitment to progress. Together, we can ensure our democracy flourishes.
A peaceful Ghana is a prosperous Ghana. On December 7, let your actions, and those of your peers, contribute to peace—not detract from it. Let us choose peace over power, for the sake of posterity and progress.