We are sacrificing everything on the altar of politics - NCCE

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has expressed sadness that Ghana's political landscape has grown increasingly intolerant and antagonistic, contrary to the nation’s values as a people.

It recalled the unfortunate incident in November 2014 when the Nkwanta South District Chief Executive in the Volta Region, Peter Kojo Kenyeso, was murdered in cold blood.

According to the commission, “There have been several other instances of violence resulting from intra-party and inter-party differences. These incidents and the growing culture of violent and vitriolic party politics are not good for our country.”

The commission made this known in a statement signed by Mr Joyce Afutu, Director, Communications and Corporate Affairs at the NCCE, to express condolences to the family of the bereaved and the New Patriotic Party after the death of Adams Mahama; adding that the Commission acknowledged the work being done by the Police “towards apprehending the perpetrators of this dastardly crime.”

“On the altar of politics, we are sacrificing our culture, our cherished traditions and our very selves. We urge all Ghanaians to remember that political parties exist to serve the people of Ghana and to ensure the development of Ghana in peace, tranquility and stability,” the statement said.

It said the concept of multi-party democracy is a contest of ideas and ideologies where different political parties work and manage affairs of the State for the well-being and interest of the people.

The statement said: “Anytime we deviate from this principle, we put the interest of the people and Ghana in jeopardy. When we resort to insults and violence, its aftermath is devastating. A sole life lost as a result of intolerance or political differences is too high a price to pay.”

“Unfortunately, we seem to be moving away from the exchange of ideas in our politics to insults, personal attacks and violence. We strongly urge the leaders of our political parties to show leadership at this time and redirect their followers, on a better path, to ensure that the national interest is paramount at all times, and above personal or partisan interests. We cannot continue on this current path.” It added.

“The NCCE averred that Ghana is known and recognised as the bastion of peace and democratic stability in our sub-region yet, we risk losing our stability, our national cohesion and more Ghanaian lives if we do not immediately pause, reflect and re-engineer our politics. One life lost, is one too much on the altar of political differences.