Most Reverend Joseph Osei-Bonsu, Emeritus Bishop of the Konongo-Mampong Catholic Diocese, has urged the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to sign the Peace Pact ahead of the 2024 elections.
Despite the NDC’s valid concerns about past electoral violence, including the deaths in Techiman during the 2020 elections, Bishop Osei-Bonsu emphasized the importance of committing to the Peace Pact.
In an interview with JOYNEWS, he stated, “It’s crucial that political parties sign this kind of agreement to promise their commitment to peace during the elections. Although such mechanisms weren’t present when our Republic was founded, the growing mistrust and tensions justify their importance now.”
He added, “It’s unfortunate that after 30 years of democracy, we still face such tensions and political rhetoric that create fear and panic. Our political maturity should have evolved beyond this.”
Professor Baffour Agyemang-Duah, former United Nations Senior Governance Advisor, also weighed in, expressing disappointment at the current need for a peace pact.
He noted, “The introduction of signing a peace pact is unnecessary and reflects the tensions and mistrust that political parties have sown.”
However, Professor Agyemang-Duah supported the peace pact, saying, “It’s important for political parties to commit to peace. By signing the agreement, they demonstrate their dedication to maintaining peace during the elections. Despite the issues raised about past violence, not signing the pact could suggest opposition to peace.”
Read Also: Public Warned of Severe Risks Linked to Illicit Small Arms Possession
