Former Nigerian President Olesegun Obasanjo has appealed to the leaders of the two main political parties in the country, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the presidential candidate of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr John Dramani Mahama, to preserve the legacy of peace bequeathed to them by the former leaders of Ghana.

This was contained in a letter by the former Nigerian President to President Akufo-Addo and Mr Mahama. 

Mr Obasanjo stated: “As the preparation for the December 7 2020 general elections continue, we must be reminded of the importance of preserving the unity, peace and stability of the country which has been bequeathed to you by those before you including our late Brother.”

He urged the two main political parties in Ghana, “to do all you can to ensure peaceful conduct of the general elections. My concern about the elections in Ghana is not only as an African, but also because of our shared colonial history, our anthropological background, and the fact that I began my military career from Teshie, Ghana and without that, I would, perhaps, have been what I am today.”

Mr Obasanjo also noted that: “As leaders of the two main political parties, this is the legacy you have been entrusted to preserve heading into elections. Your role is unique in that the NPP and NDC are the main players, have made significant contributions to the peace and stability of Ghana, and are vested with the capacity, influence and control to constructively shape national discussions and processes such as the upcoming elections.”

“In this vein, the success or failure of the elections, a key aspect of democratic consolidation in Ghana will largely depend on the posture of the NPP and NDC and how that is manifested by the actions of their supporters.” 

The letter added: “My prayer for you and the country is that Ghana should emerge the winner irrespective of which party wins. Through my most humble voice, the region and the continent count on your sense of patriotism and guided by the aspirations of all Ghanaians who would want to see Ghana live up to its ideals by organising elections that are peaceful, credible and transparent.”