Peace Council launches election early warning group in Tamale
The Regional Election Early Warning and Response Group (REEWARG) , has been launched in Tamale to discuss, develop and recommend strategies to mitigate threats to the peaceful conduct of the 2016 elections.
REEWARG, which is composed of from the Northern Regional Peace Council and prominent persons from relevant state and non-state institutions, would work to complement government’s efforts in the prevention and mitigation of election-related violence.
REEWARG is facilitated by the National Peace Council in Partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding, and the United Nations Development Programme.
Most Reverend Phillip Naameh, Catholic Archbishop of Tamale and Chairman of the Northern Regional Peace Council, who launched the REEWARG, expressed the need for all to work towards peaceful polls in December.
The eminent members of the REEWARG would use their years of experience and influence to facilitate early response to conflict and early warning issues before they escalate into violence.
They would also ensure that electoral conflict threats at the grassroots level receive immediate attention and response at the regional level.
Most Reverend Naameh urged traditional leaders including other influential people not to try to shield miscreants but rather support the security services to discipline such people in accordance with the law to deter others.
Mr Shaibu Abubakar, Member of the Board of the National Peace Council called for commitment on parts of all to ensure peace.
He said there is need to give the Region a different image other than being portrayed as a violent place.
Nana Serwah Bonsu Amoako, a representative of USAID noted the country’s strong democratic credentials, adding: “Ghana has been applauded for holding successful elections for many years; however, we must not be complacent, but remain vigilant of the risks of instability in the upcoming elections.”
Lieutenant Colonel William Kwabiah, Commanding Officer, 6BN, Tamale urged religious and traditional leaders to use their platforms to propagate peace to forestall any untoward event before, during and after the elections.
He said the security agencies are ready to do what it takes to ensure peaceful polls.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Ken Yeboah, Regional Police Commander, whose speech was read on his behalf, urged all to put the country first and use peaceful means to resolve their differences.
Alhaji Abdul Razak Saani, Regional Director of the National Commission for Civic Education said the body would play its crucial role to educate the public to ensure peaceful polls.
Source: GNA