NCCE expresses disappointment over lack of interest in constituency dialogues for parliamentary candidates

The National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE) has voiced its dismay over the apparent lack of interest displayed by parliamentary candidates in participating in constituency-level dialogues.

According to the Commission’s Chairperson, Kathleen Addy, these engagements, which are crucial for deepening democratic discourse, have seen low turnout despite significant investments of state resources.

At a recent press briefing, Ms. Addy lamented that the Commission’s efforts to organize these forums have not yielded the desired outcomes. She emphasized that the dialogues are vital platforms for connecting candidates with voters, fostering transparency, and addressing pressing community issues.

“When political parties and their candidates fail to show up, it undermines the spirit of our democracy and wastes the resources invested in these initiatives,” she stated.

The Chairperson also raised concerns about comments made by some politicians that could incite religious intolerance. She condemned such remarks as divisive and detrimental to Ghana’s peace and unity.

“Our country has a proud history of religious coexistence, and any attempt to jeopardize that must be resisted. Politicians should promote inclusivity rather than sow seeds of discord,” Ms. Addy noted.

On the issue of vote buying, Ms. Addy issued a stern warning to citizens, urging them to reject monetary or material inducements from politicians.

“There is no such thing as a free lunch,” she cautioned. Accepting bribes compromises the integrity of elections and undermines the collective will of the people. She encouraged voters to prioritize the long-term welfare of their communities over short-term gains.

The NCCE, established to promote civic education and foster national cohesion, is mandated to design and implement programs that instill a sense of civic responsibility in Ghanaians. Despite the challenges, the Commission remains committed to its mission of empowering citizens to actively participate in governance and uphold democratic values.

Ms. Addy called on all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the media, to support the Commission’s efforts in building a vibrant and informed electorate.

As the 2024 elections draw closer, the NCCE’s appeal highlights the need for all political actors to uphold the principles of democracy, accountability, and inclusivity.

Source: 3news