WATCH: Clergies, Imams And Other Religious Bodies Hit The Streets In ‘Support' And 'Solidarity’ With EC
Ahead of the December 7, general election, some heads of religious bodies have taken to the streets to preach peace and extend their support for the Electoral Commissioner whose leadership is very crucial.
The group said in a statement that they trust the EC will ensure a free and fair election despite doubts from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“We declare publicly our trust in the EC’s ability to execute its constitutional mandate without fear or favour. The Electoral Commission is at the forefront of our democracy, bearing the immense responsibility of ensuring people's will is freely expressed and accurately reflected.”
“We stand firmly behind them in this endeavour, encouraging all citizens and political stakeholders to do the same.” A portion of the statement said.
Adding that: “We believe that the Electoral Commission will carry out its mandate with the highest level of professionalism, ensuring the continued success of Ghana’s democratic journey.”
Read the full statement below
SOLIDARITY AND SUPPORT FOR THE ELECTORAL COMMISSION AND CALL FOR NATIONAL UNITY BY COALITION OF RELIGIOUS CLERGYMEN.
We bring you warm greetings in the name of God the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit, Amen.
Assalamu alaikum was rahmatullahi wa barakatuh السلام عليكم السلام عليكم ورحمة الله
We, the members of the Coalition of Religious Clergymen, are Christians and Muslims of our beloved country united under a common purpose to show our unwavering support for the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana and demonstrate our firm belief in the credibility and integrity of our electoral process. Our collective actions as discerned men of God exemplify our commitment to safeguarding the democratic values that Ghana holds as the star of Africa.
We highly value the critical role of the EC in the democratic principles that have made us the shining star since the return to democratic rule as enshrined in the fourth Republican dispensation.
We declare publicly our trust in the EC’s ability to execute its constitutional mandate without fear or favour. The Electoral Commission is at the forefront of our democracy, bearing the immense responsibility of ensuring the will of the people is freely expressed and accurately reflected. We stand firmly behind them in this endeavour, encouraging all citizens and political stakeholders to do the same.
We state clearly and unambiguously that there should be no room for panic or fear from any political party, institution, or stakeholder.
We believe that we have a major role to play and that the EC, backed by its long-standing experience and professional competence, can conduct a free, fair, credible and transparent election. Therefore, we call on all political actors, civil society groups, and citizens to provide the Electoral Commission with the necessary support and space to function effectively without undue pressure or interference.
We charge the EC to hold its constitutional mandate and its operational instruments under the law as the reference document for a fair and credible process.
We also want to remind ourselves that democracy is not the sole responsibility of the Electoral Commission; it is a collective effort involving all stakeholders. From political parties to civil society organisations and the media to every citizen, we must all act in good faith, respecting the principles of fairness, transparency and accountability.
We add our voices, actions and engagements to foster peace, stability and national unity. We remain committed to these principles, which are fundamental to our country’s growth and development.
We urge the media and other influential voices to adopt a tone of neutrality, objectivity, and support for the democratic process. Let us not become conduits for misinformation or tension but rather champions of truth, balance, and harmony with open arms from the EC according to its mandate.
We believe that the Electoral Commission will carry out its mandate with the highest level of professionalism, ensuring the continued success of Ghana’s democratic journey.
We encourage ourselves, regardless of political affiliation, to stand together in solidarity, promoting peace and national cohesion as we build a brighter future for our beloved country.