NCCE warns of rising voter willingness to engage in violence ahead of Dec. 7 polls

The Chairperson of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Kathleen Addy, has raised serious concerns about the increasing readiness of some Ghanaians to engage in election-related violence, a trend that could severely threaten the nation’s democratic stability.

Her warning follows the release of a recent NCCE report that revealed a worrying level of voter willingness to resort to violence, either to advance political party interests or in response to perceived electoral malpractice.

Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, 23 October 2024, the NCCE Chairperson underscored the urgent need to strengthen public trust in Ghana’s electoral system to prevent potential unrest during the upcoming 2024 general elections.

“We have people who are willing to say on record that yes, they’re willing to participate in violent activities, at least for one reason or the other.

“It should be a great source of worry to all well-meaning Ghanaians,” she stated.

The NCCE Chairperson stressed the importance of reinforcing faith in the country's governance systems, arguing that a lack of confidence can push people towards dangerous methods of resolving disputes.

“As people, we should work together to ensure that we build confidence in the systems that have been set up for governance.

"So that people will not be compelled to take that course of action, she emphasised.

The NCCE Chairperson further urged citizens to take advantage of peaceful conflict resolution mechanisms available through institutions like the National Peace Council.

“People should have the understanding that there are conflict resolutions that are available to various institutions, through the Peace Council.

“We should use this mechanism to resolve every misunderstanding that comes up,” she advised.

In addition, the NCCE Chairperson reminded political parties and their supporters that election monitoring at polling stations is strictly the responsibility of officially appointed party agents.

She cautioned against any unappointed individuals taking matters into their own hands.

“When you go to the polling stations, the parties already have someone there ensuring that the parties are allocated the votes they get,” she explained.

The NCCE Chairperson added: “If you have not been delegated to represent your party, you have no business going there to do party work.”