Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations for West Africa and the Sahel, Dr Mohammed Ibn Chambas has called on the youth of the country to positively contribute to the maintenance of peace before, during and after the general elections on 7 December 2020.

Dr Ibn Chambas was speaking at a national stakeholders’ dialogue organised by the National Peace Council (NPC) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) geared towards promoting peaceful elections.

He also urged Ghanaians to ensure that the upcoming polls are premised on the healthy competition of ideas instead of hate speeches.

“Election is about competition of ideas and not hate speech. So, we must ensure the youth continue to positively contribute to peace, to let Ghana emerge once again as the beacon of hope in West Africa”, Dr Ibn Chambas stated.

For his part, the Resident Representative of the Economic Community of West African State (ECOWAS) in Ghana, Ambassador Baba Gana Wakil emphasised that it is important “to get the youth to moderate their behaviour on election day to ensure that Ghana becomes the winner of the elections”.

Resident Coordinator of the UN in Ghana, Charles Abani also pledged the UN’s support to ensure an inclusive and peaceful election.

Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah cautioned the media against sending out information without first cross-checking.

He also added: “Peace is fragile and priceless. Let us use dialogue to resolve issues, not a gun. We must walk peace and talk peace, for without peace there will be no development”.