Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has expressed strong concerns about the ongoing militarisation of elections in Ghana, calling for an end to the deployment of military personnel to polling stations. He argues that this trend undermines democratic principles and intimidates voters, potentially affecting the integrity of the electoral process. Mahama’s statement highlights the importance of ensuring that elections are peaceful and free from undue influence by security forces, urging political leaders and stakeholders to prioritise the democratic will of the people over militarised enforcement.
Former President John Mahama has raised concerns over the increasing deployment of armed military and security personnel at polling and collation centres during elections in Ghana. He described this as the “militarization of our elections,” arguing that such practices create an atmosphere of intimidation, potentially discouraging voter participation and undermining the democratic process. Mahama has urged for a shift away from this approach, emphasizing the need to safeguard the integrity of elections and allow citizens to exercise their voting rights freely and without fear. He called on stakeholders, including government and security agencies, to support peaceful and transparent electoral processes in Ghana.
Former President John Mahama has voiced his concerns about the “militarization of elections” in Ghana, describing it as a “recipe for chaos” that could destabilize the country’s electoral process. He emphasized the need to halt this trend to preserve the integrity and peaceful nature of elections in Ghana. Mahama made these remarks while pledging his commitment to peace at the 2024 Peace Campaign event organized by the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council, in collaboration with the Christian Council and the Office of the National Chief Imam, at the State House in Accra.
During his address, Mahama announced that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) would formally propose an expansion of the Peace Pact’s signatories to include additional key stakeholders. This move, he explained, would hold these institutions accountable and ensure they play active roles in promoting a peaceful election. This proposal to the National Peace Council aims to broaden responsibility for peace, fostering collaboration across critical sectors and reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to a fair and transparent electoral process ahead of the December polls.
Former President John Mahama stressed the importance of making the Peace Pact a binding commitment, rather than “a ceremonial piece of paper without any meaning,” during his address at the 2024 Peace Campaign event. He called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to maintain impartiality and urged the Judiciary to uphold fairness and neutrality in resolving any potential election disputes, emphasizing that justice is essential for lasting peace. Mahama warned of the dangers of ignoring injustices, referencing the adage, “a stitch in time saves nine,” and pointing out that many global conflicts have escalated due to unaddressed grievances. He underscored his commitment to peace, assuring attendees that both he and the NDC are devoted to maintaining peace before, during, and after the upcoming elections. “While I am and will remain a man of peace,” he stated, “I urge everyone to stay vigilant and to stand for justice.”Former President John Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to peace at the 2024 Peace Campaign, declaring that he and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) are dedicated to maintaining peace and stability in Ghana. “We have a strong stake in maintaining the peace of Ghana and would work for a peaceful Ghana that fosters progress and happiness for every citizen,” he stated. Standing before the audience and invoking the Almighty, Mahama pledged, “I, John Dramani Mahama, stand here today before you and before the Almighty God to reaffirm.
