Ghana is a beacon of democracy, this post-election violence tarnishes our brand. Perpetrators must be brought to book – Lawyer Anthony Mmieh, MP for Odotrobi constituency addresses parliament
Lawyer Anthony Mmieh, the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Odotrobi Constituency, expressed deep concern over the recent surge in post-election violence that has marred Ghana’s reputation as a stable democracy in West Africa. His remarks come at a critical time when the nation, celebrated for its democratic process and political stability, faces challenges that could tarnish the progress it has made in the realm of governance and civil rights.
Over the years, Ghana has earned a well-deserved reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa. The peaceful transfer of power, regular elections, and respect for human rights have been hallmarks of the country’s political system. Ghana’s peaceful electoral process has inspired many African countries that struggle with political instability, and it has consistently ranked as one of the continent’s most successful democratic nations.
However, recent episodes of violence following elections have raised serious questions about the country’s future political landscape. These violent incidents, which have left many citizens injured and a few dead, not only undermine the legitimacy of Ghana’s electoral system but also create an atmosphere of fear and distrust among the electorate.
In his address, MP Anthony Mmieh called for a strong, unified response to ensure that the perpetrators of post-election violence are swiftly identified and brought to justice. Mmieh, a seasoned lawyer, emphasized that the political violence that erupted after recent elections, particularly in some parts of the country, threatens to unravel the democratic gains that Ghana has made over the past decades.”
The MP further cautioned that if left unchecked, post-election violence could erode the trust the people of Ghana have in the electoral process and the political system. He noted that the country’s reputation as a symbol of democratic progress would suffer irreparably if such violent acts were to persist unchecked.
Mmieh’s remarks highlighted the need for a concerted effort by both government and civil society to address the root causes of political violence in Ghana. He called for comprehensive reforms to ensure that elections remain peaceful, transparent, and fair. This includes strengthening the capacity of security forces to handle post-election disturbances, ensuring that the Electoral Commission has the necessary tools to conduct elections free from external interference, and establishing better systems for managing political tensions.
Moreover, he advocated for public education campaigns to promote peaceful political participation and discourage violence in all its forms. Mmieh’s call for accountability was not just a call for punishing the perpetrators but also for addressing the systemic factors that enable violence to occur in the first place.
Lawyer Anthony Mmieh’s speech to Parliament serves as a reminder that democracy is not a given, and that maintaining peace, stability, and respect for the rule of law requires constant vigilance and accountability. While Ghana has made remarkable strides in its democratic journey, recent events suggest that there is still much work to be done in ensuring that the country remains a true beacon of democracy.
