By S.M.A. | Reflections Section | Business and Financial Times
With Ghanaians gearing up to head to the polls in 2024, it's an opportunity to address one of the most alarming challenges facing our democracy: violence during elections.
This affliction, although not widespread in all parts of the nation, has still emerged as a frequent element in our political scene.
From conflicts at voting locations to intense clashes in so-called "hotspots," the threat of election-related violence hampers our democratic development, economic security, and national unity.
We need to confront the reality directly: Ghana, frequently praised as a symbol of democracy in West Africa, cannot keep overlooking the lasting effects of violence affecting our elections. It's time to declare, with united determination, that our democracy should be based on votes—not weapons.
A Threat to Democracy
At the core of every democracy is the fundamental right of citizens to select their leaders freely, without any fear or pressure. When violence disrupts elections, this right is undermined. Voters may be threatened, excluded from the process, or simply discouraged from participating. Political figures, especially young people, are often exploited—treated as tools in a system that primarily serves the powerful, at the expense of community harmony and, in some cases, lives.
The significance of political authority in Ghana is immense. Victory or defeat in an election is frequently perceived as a matter of survival, rather than just a shift in governance. This mindset fosters a competitive political environment, where the concept of "winner takes all" has become standard practice, and political parties go to great lengths—both lawful and otherwise—to gain and maintain control.
Although Ghana has held eight consecutive elections since 1992 with a degree of stability, this favorable track record is becoming more vulnerable due to growing instances of violence—especially during by-elections, party selection processes, voter registration events, and conflicts regarding election outcomes. The Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election in 2019 serves as a sobering example of how quickly violence can occur when systems break down and there is no accountability.
The Economic Cost
Electoral violence poses a significant risk to democratic systems—it also imposes a severe impact on the economy. Investors rely on stability and consistency. When elections are accompanied by violence and chaos, trust in the economic environment declines. The private sector, especially small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), faces interruptions that reduce efficiency. Transportation comes to a standstill. Products are unable to be transported. Curfews and anxiety limit daily economic activities.
Ghana is currently facing economic challenges: paying off debts, rising inflation, and changes in the currency value. We cannot handle the extra stress of instability during our election periods. A calm and well-organized election process is not a privilege—it is essential for the economy.
In addition, violence connected to elections also imposes a significant financial burden on public resources. Police departments have to redirect personnel and supplies to areas where conflicts might arise. Medical centers are overwhelmed by treating injured individuals. Judicial systems face challenges in handling politically driven crimes—sometimes without even pursuing prosecutions.
Who Fuels the Fire?
It is impossible to overlook the involvement of political parties in encouraging, facilitating, or remaining silent about violence. The mobilization and equipping of unofficial groups, referred to as "party security," has been extensively recorded. These groups, frequently made up of jobless young people seeking income, are trained, sent into action, and occasionally given incentives for their violent behavior.
Although the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999) has been passed, its implementation remains insufficient. The determination to disband these groups seems indifferent at best. Political parties are quick to denounce violence from their rivals, yet they secretly support it when they are in power or when it benefits them.
The Electoral Commission, the police, and the judicial system need to be given the authority to apply the law fairly. However, they must also be seen as unbiased. A biased official in a critical role is the quickest way to spark conflict within the political arena.
The Media’s Responsibility
The media has a two-fold function. In one aspect, it acts as an essential observer, revealing cases of violence, ensuring political figures are responsible, and boosting demands for peace. In another aspect, certain media outlets and social media personalities have contributed to escalating tensions—using provocative language, unreliable information, and clear propaganda.
A fundamental aspect of our democratic progress is responsible journalism. Editors and media executives should emphasize fair coverage, verification of facts, and the prevention of inflammatory opinions, particularly in times of elections. Additionally, public awareness initiatives that encourage acceptance, community duty, and the importance of voting should be intensified.
Engaging the Youth
It's not by chance that most individuals involved in acts of violence are young. This is a serious national crisis. Our youth need to learn that participating in politics should not be based on deals or through violent means. Their future is theirs, and they shouldn't sacrifice it for a few cedis or a job offer in return for chaos.
Non-governmental organizations, religious groups, customary leaders, and academic institutions all have a part to play in shaping the attitudes of our young people. Leadership and ethics education needs to be integrated into our schools. Mentoring initiatives should connect young voters with exemplary figures who exhibit a sense of civic duty.
Crucially, young individuals need to witness proof that peaceful interaction is effective—that their opinions can be recognized via voting and campaigning, rather than through violence.
The Role of Institutions
The Electoral Commission (EC), the National Peace Council, the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), the Ghana Police Service, and the judicial system need to cooperate openly and honestly to foster public trust.
- The ECIt must carry out its operations with the highest level of fairness, transparency, and interaction with all involved parties.
- The PoliceThey must respond quickly and firmly against those who commit acts of violence—no matter what their political background is.
- The JudiciaryIt is essential to address election-related conflicts swiftly and fairly to avoid anger escalating into violent actions.
- The NCCE and Peace CommitteeIt is necessary to expand community education, dispute resolution, and conflict avoidance initiatives in every district.
The moment to take action is present. Organizations should be forward-thinking, rather than waiting for events to unfold.
A call to all
The solution to election-related violence is not a single quick fix. It is a collection of actions throughout society—starting with the main candidate, to the polling station worker, from the young activist to the elder in the church, from the radio host to the woman running a market.
Each Ghanaian has an interest in maintaining peace. We need to avoid the lure of excusing "small incidents" or supporting violence as "a part of politics." That is not acceptable. It is a harmful force that erodes trust, discourages involvement, and wounds our national spirit.
Let us establish fair competition. Let us honor political openness. Let us expect greater commitment from those who wish to guide us.
Final Thoughts: Towards a Culture of Peace
Ghana has plenty to be proud of. Our path towards democracy, although not flawless, has motivated many throughout the continent. However, the achievement of democracy is not determined by the mere holding of elections—it is judged by whether those elections genuinely represent the people's true desires, and by how power is transferred in a peaceful manner.
Let us, as a country, pledge: No Ghanaian should ever lose their life due to an election. Power should never be obtained through bloodshed.
In 2024 and onwards, let votes carry more weight than weapons.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).