NGO to develop code of conduct for politicians

Choice-Ghana, an NGO in collaboration with traditional authorities and other stakeholders are developing a local code of conduct to guide activities of political parties in their campaigns towards the 2012 general elections.

Choice-Ghana is involved in development and the promotion of peace in the country.

The code of conduct will fashion out practical ways that would suit the local environment in ensuring peaceful and violent free elections, especially in the East Gonja district, which has been identified as one of the electoral flash points in the Northern region.

Mr Mohammed Seidu, Executive Director of Chioce-Ghana said this at a forum, organized by the NGO in Salaga, at the weekend for traditional authorities, religious leaders and security personnel, on how to ensure peace in the district before, during and after the 2012 elections.

He said the NGO was focusing on traditional authorities, since the institution had helped maintain and sustain peace in their various communities over the past years because of its neutrality in terms of politics.

He therefore called on the traditional authorities and religious leaders to bring their rich experience and influence to bear on the electorate to conduct themselves properly during the elections.

Mr Seidu said, the key objective of the forum was to sensitize traditional authorities, religious leaders and other stakeholders to enable them to effectively play a mediatory role in ensuring peaceful elections.

Mr Alhassan Mumuni, East Gonja District Chief Executive (DCE) told the people to reject politicians who mount platforms to insult and incite violence.

He urged the electorate to rather question politicians on their policies and programmes they have towards the development of the country and how they could improve upon their lives.

Mr Mohammed Alhassan, East Gonja District Director of the National Commission for Civic Education, (NCCE) asked the political parties to respect the integrity of the electoral process and defend it.

He also urged political leaders to sensitize and educate their members to avoid violence.**