By Edzorna Francis Mensah
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reiterated his commitment to ensuring peaceful and transparent Presidential and Parliamentary elections come December 7, 2024 as he opened the 2nd General Assembly of The Conference Of Speakers And Presidents Of African Legislatures (CoSPAL) in Accra.
The President Member of Parliament for Asokwa, Patricia Appiagyei submitted that, reaffirmed his government’s absolute commitment to ensuring that these elections are conducted peacefully, transparently, and with the utmost respect for the democratic rights of every Ghanaian.
According to him, “Ghana has long stood as a beacon of democracy on our continent, and it is our collective duty to maintain this legacy for generations to come. Our strength as a democracy lies in our unity and our shared values, and I call upon all Ghanaians, regardless of background or political affiliation, to join us in this commitment to peace”.
He mentioned that the government, in collaboration with the Electoral Commission, security agencies, and all relevant stakeholders, “will create an environment in which all citizens can participate in the electoral process without fear, intimidation, or interference. We understand that free, fair, and peaceful elections are not merely a reflection of governmental integrity but the foundation of our democratic values. Our standing as a model of democracy is not by chance; it is a legacy earned through dedication, resilience, and a firm commitment to upholding justice, equality, and freedom”.
Mr. President on CoSPAL’s role however, noted that, it is not merely as an organization but as a movement – one uniquely positioned to unite our legislative processes and to create a framework where best practices and governance strategies can be shared across national borders.
“Today’s assembly seeks to establish CoSPAL’s foundational constitution and operational mechanisms, ensuring that this body is equipped to serve as a bridge among our legislatures, fostering cooperation and unity across the African continent”, he added and emphasized the point that, the vision behind CoSPAL aligns with the enduring ideals of Pan-Africanism, “our forebears, who laid the foundations for African emancipation and unity, understood the power of solidarity. Through CoSPAL, we honor their legacy by ensuring that our governance structures are not isolated from one another but integrated and supportive of a common African identity. This assembly is an opportunity to renew our commitment to Pan-Africanism, to affirm that we are stronger together, and to stand in solidarity as we tackle both local and continental issues with a united front”.