The Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) says it will continue to play its role to institute measures that will ensure peace and safety for all citizens in the region before, during, and after the general elections in December.
The Eastern REGSEC further disclosed that proactive measures such as public engagements with stakeholders and public education have been adopted to ensure a peaceful election process in the region.
Addressing stakeholders including assembly members, community-based groups, religious leaders, and the media, the Eastern Regional Minister Seth Kwame Acheampong said the council aims to guarantee public safety for a violence-free election and emphasized the importance of collaboration and unity to foster a peaceful electoral environment.
Seth Kwame Acheampong, who doubles as the Chairman of REGSEC, said they are fully committed to peace and protecting the region’s infrastructure, education, and healthcare. He argued that by working with the media through regular engagements and public education, a peaceful and successful electoral process can be ensured in all communities.
He outlined some public safety measures by the REGSEC, such as a code of conduct to guide the electorates’ behaviour, and said, despite the heterogeneous nature of the region, the media can help inform and educate the electorate on such measures that ensure peace and public safety.
Mr. Acheampong emphasized the importance of civic engagement and participation, encouraged citizens to take active roles in shaping governance through voting, and urged Ghanaians to protect the integrity of the democratic process and work together to ensure a peaceful election.
DCOP Emmanuel Twumasi-Ankrah, the Eastern Regional Police Commander, outlined some of the preparations the security agencies have made to guard the electoral process and ensure public safety.
He noted that elections are periods for citizens to exercise their voting power and choose leaders to guide the country into the future.
The Eastern Regional Police Commander called for effective partnerships with the security agencies to resist individuals who seek to derail the country’s democracy and stability.
On his part, the Eastern Regional GJA president, Maxwell Kudekor, said the media’s role is to combat misinformation and disinformation to maintain peace and public order.
He noted that the use of divisive language and incitement of violence should not be entertained on media platforms, adding that media must play its expected role to help consolidate the country’s democratic credentials.
He was confident that by mobilizing community leaders and promoting interfaith dialogue, the REGSEC could create a peaceful atmosphere for the upcoming elections.
