British High Commissioner raises concerns over potential election unrest in Ghana
Accra, Ghana - Nov 8, 2024 - British High Commissioner Harriet Thompson expressed concerns about potential unrest during Ghana's upcoming 2024 elections, citing fears from local leaders and citizens.
Speaking at the King's Birthday celebration in Accra, Thompson emphasized the importance of peaceful elections, warning that unrest would be "incredibly damaging" for Ghana and dangerous for those involved.
Thompson urged Ghanaian politicians and influential figures to advocate for credible, transparent, inclusive, and peaceful elections. She highlighted the UK's commitment to supporting Ghana's democracy through funding independent observers and deploying staff to monitor electoral activities.
''Unfortunately, my colleagues and I are frequently told by a range of people that they fear Ghana’s 2024 elections will be less peaceful than previous elections,” she stated.
“An election that’s not peaceful would be incredibly damaging for Ghana, as well as dangerous, of course, for those directly involved,” she added, underlining the stakes for the country’s democratic fabric.
“The good thing is that politicians and others in influential positions…can prevent this from happening,” she emphasised.
“I urge all of you with influence to do all you can to ensure that Ghana has credible, transparent, inclusive, and peaceful elections.”
“The UK cares so deeply about Ghana’s democracy and future success because of the democratic values that we share,” adding that the stability of both nations could be mutually beneficial,'' she added.
Ghana has a history of peaceful elections, having achieved three peaceful transfers of power since democracy was restored in 1992. However, recent conversations suggest growing apprehension about the 2024 polls. The UK's support aims to bolster Ghana's democratic institutions and promote stability, recognizing the mutual benefits of a strong democratic partnership.
Source: Lead News Online
