Goodluck Jonathan Leads WAEF Team to Ensure Free, Fair Elections in Ghana
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has arrived in Accra, Ghana, to head the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) observation mission ahead of the country’s general election on December 7, 2024.
The delegation also includes Mr. Kadre Ouedraogo, former Prime Minister of Burkina Faso and ex-President of ECOWAS; Ann Iyonu, Executive Director of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation; and Ikechukwu Eze, Special Adviser to Jonathan and Head of Media and Communications.
In a statement released by WAEF’s Communications Officer, Dickson Ominabo, Jonathan called on Ghanaians to show patriotism and ensure that the upcoming election is peaceful, transparent, and free.
The former Nigerian president also appealed to Ghana’s Electoral Commission and security agencies to remain independent and neutral, emphasizing their crucial role in ensuring a credible electoral process. He praised the Ghanaian people for their steadfast commitment to democratic values and noted that the country’s history of peaceful political transitions serves as an inspiration for the continent.
“The elections present another opportunity for Ghanaians to reaffirm their commitment to democracy, stability, and national development,” Jonathan said.
He further expressed WAEF’s encouragement for the Electoral Commission to maintain its responsibility of delivering free and fair elections, stressing that transparency is key to strengthening public trust. Jonathan also urged security forces to conduct their duties professionally, ensuring a peaceful electoral atmosphere while safeguarding voters, polling stations, and election materials.
As the campaign period winds down, Jonathan urged all political parties and candidates to uphold peaceful campaigning practices, avoiding inflammatory language and personal attacks. He emphasized the importance of resolving any disputes in a lawful manner.
Jonathan also called on political leaders, their supporters, and the youth to respect the electoral process, avoid violence or intimidation, and abide by the rule of law during and after the election.
Reflecting on Ghana’s status as a beacon of democracy in Africa, Jonathan urged the nation’s citizens to protect this legacy by rejecting any form of violence or actions that could undermine the integrity of the electoral system.
“Together, Ghanaians can once again demonstrate their commitment to free, fair, and transparent elections, reinforcing their position as a model of democratic governance in Africa,”
Jonathan concluded.
