NDC’s reluctance to sign peace pact stems from lack of trust in the system – Mr. Charles McCarthy

The recent refusal of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to sign this year’s peace pact has sparked discussions. Mr. Charles McCarthy, speaking on Maakye Live, shared his insights into the party’s reluctance to commit to the agreement.

He emphasized that peace goes beyond mere paperwork, it’s a journey.
“When we talk about peace, it’s presumably a good thing. There’s not a single person who wouldn’t want peace, but it’s a journey,”

Mr.McCarthy remarked. “However, in Ghana, this journey is often disrupted by broken promises, especially during election cycles.The NDC’s hesitation to sign the peace pact may stem from a lack of trust in the process.”

Mr. McCarthy questioned the need for these pacts, asking, “Why is it important that we sign a peace accord during elections?” He noted that in the past, peace agreements were signed, but the expected results were still hard to achieve.

“The opposite occurs,” he said, reflecting the frustration felt by many who perceive these pacts as empty gestures.

Mr. McCarthy also highlighted the issue of vigilante groups. While the NDC disbanded its groups as agreed, the NPP’s factions remained “active and armed,” according to him.This perceived imbalance in enforcing agreements likely contributes to the NDC’s reluctance.

Complicating matters further is the expansion of the Peace Council, the body overseeing these accords. Mr. McCarthy questioned the increase in its membership, stating, “I don’t understand why they were 27, and it has been increased to 67.” This expansion raises concerns about effectiveness versus bureaucracy.

The NDC’s refusal to sign the peace pact reflects their distrust in a process that, according to Mr. McCarthy, has failed to deliver on its promises. As he simply put it, “Peace is a journey,” but when that journey is filled with unmet commitments, taking the first step becomes difficult.

Story by:Pepertual Anyimadu