Stakeholders in Ghana’s General Elections Need to Foster “integrity, dedication”: Catholic Bishops

The Catholic Church leaders urge “all political parties to conduct their ongoing campaigns with respect for democratic values and the dignity of all individuals.”

“Political discourse should be rooted in constructive dialogue and a commitment to the common good. We call on all parties to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and to respect the laws governing elections and political conduct,” they say.

To members of the Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC), GCBC members say, “It is crucial that the Commission ensures that all electoral processes are carried out impartially and in accordance with the law.”

“We encourage the Commission to facilitate open communication with all stakeholders and to address any concerns regarding the electoral process promptly and transparently,” they add.

They call on media houses to “practice responsible journalism by providing accurate, unbiased, and balanced reporting. It is imperative that the media helps to foster a well-informed electorate and avoid sensationalism that may incite division or conflict.”

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To the judiciary, GCBC members advocate for “utmost integrity”.

They call upon members of the judiciary to “continue upholding justice with fairness and impartiality. In the event of electoral disputes, we trust that the judiciary will address them with the utmost integrity and adherence to the rule of law.”

“The judiciary's role in maintaining public confidence in the electoral process cannot be overstated,” they add.

Addressing themselves to security agents, the Catholic Church leaders call for “professionalism” and impartiality.  

They urge security agents to “perform their duties with professionalism and respect for human rights. It is essential that the security services work impartially and ensure the safety and security of all citizens, without bias or favoritism.”

Ghana’s youthful voters, on their part, must “vote, and engage in the elections positively and constructively,” GCBC members say. 

“Let your voices be heard in this crucial electoral process for the advancement of our democracy and be responsible enough to resist manipulations from any quarters to engage in any disruptive or violent behaviour,” they add.

Ghana’s Catholic Bishops go on to call upon traditional and religious leaders to foster an “environment of mutual respect, actively work towards reducing tension and be mediators of peace.”

“As we strive to be circumspect in our teachings, let our actions reflect our commitment to harmony and reconciliation, ensuring that our electoral process does not sow seeds of discord but rather strengthens our national fabric,” they appeal. 

GCBC members urge the electorate in Ghana to exercise their right to vote “wisely and responsibly.”

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“Educate yourselves about the candidates and their platforms, and vote for those who align with your vision for a better Ghana,” they say, and add, “Your vote is a powerful tool for shaping the future of our nation, and it is crucial that it is cast with careful consideration and respect for the democratic process.”

Ghana’s Catholic Bishops express their “firm resolve to do whatever is within our power to foster and maintain the peace and stability of Mother Ghana, in the unswerving conviction that it is both our civic and God-mandated duty for the integral development of our people.”

“We also urge you all, our brothers and sisters, to work together to ensure that our elections are conducted in an atmosphere of peace, fairness, and mutual respect. May our actions and words reflect our commitment to the values of true Freedom, Justice, Probity, and Accountability,” GCBC members say.

They implore, “May God bless our Homeland Ghana, and make her great and strong.” 

Jude Atemanke is a Cameroonian journalist with a passion for Catholic Church communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Buea in Cameroon. Currently, Jude serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.