Former President Jerry John Rawlings has called for a “transparent and unblemished” process leading to the forthcoming general elections in December.
He therefore wants the Electoral Commission to do more engagements and consultations with stakeholders to ensure that the outcome of the December 7, 2020 election is free and fair devoid of any suspicion.
While calling for the needed support to the electoral body to achieve a more credible election, Mr. Rawlings advocated that the debate on new voter’s register needs thorough examination.
The former president was addressing a virtual durbar to commemorate the 41st anniversary of the June 4 revolution in 1979.
“… it is equally important for that revered institution, EC, to ensure that the processes leading to this year’s elections are done in consultation with the stakeholders of the nation; to prevent unnecessary suspicion, and promote a peaceful and cohesive society.
“An election is an event but, building a democratic, free and peaceful society is a process so the debate surrounding the new voter’s register must be thoroughly examined so we do not undermine the successes we have chalked so far, as a nation.”
Mr. Rawlings enjoined all, especially the EC, to ensure that the “sanctity of the right of choice” as the country to the polls to elect a president and 275 members of parliament is not compromise.
“Freedom and justice is not abstract. It is very much related to the sanctity of the right of choice,” he cautioned.
Former President Rawlings who was the leader of the June 4 revolution justified the action and warned against going back to the “difficult times” that gave birth to the uprising.
“The patriotic zeal that gave birth to June 4 is one that cannot be extinguished. Any attempt to compromise on the ideals of probity, accountability and integrity in our everyday lives is an attempt to snuff out the light that was lit 41 years ago. Let us honour the memories of those who laid down their lives liberating Ghana.”
By Isaac Essel | 3news.com
