Goodluck Jonathan Leads West African Elders Forum To Ghana Ahead Of December 7 Elections
A delegation of the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) observation mission, led by former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, arrived in Accra, Ghana, on Wednesday in preparation for the country’s December 7 general elections. This was disclosed in a statement by WAEF’s Communications Officer, Wealth Dickson Ominabo, in Abuja.
On arrival, Jonathan urged Ghanaians to remain patriotic and committed to ensuring peaceful, free, and transparent elections. He commended Ghana’s history of peaceful political transitions, describing it as a model for democratic governance across Africa.
The Delegation
The WAEF delegation includes:
•Former Burkinabe Prime Minister and ECOWAS President, Mr. Kadre Ouedraogo.
•Executive Director of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, Ms. Ann Iyonu.
•Special Adviser to Jonathan, Mr. Ikechukwu Eze.
Jonathan emphasized the importance of the upcoming elections, calling it another opportunity for Ghanaians to demonstrate their dedication to democracy, stability, and development.
Call for Credible Elections
The delegation urged the Electoral Commission of Ghana and the country’s security agencies to remain neutral and independent in fulfilling their roles. Jonathan stated, “The WAEF urges the Electoral Commission of Ghana to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections to build trust among the electorate and stakeholders.”
He also encouraged security agencies to maintain professionalism and neutrality, ensuring peaceful elections by safeguarding voting materials, polling centers, and citizens.
Appeal to Political Parties and Stakeholders
Jonathan appealed to political parties, candidates, and stakeholders to adhere to peaceful campaigns, refraining from hate speech, inflammatory rhetoric, or personal attacks. He urged all to respect the electoral process and resolve disputes through constitutional means.
He also called on the youth and party supporters to remain law-abiding, avoiding acts of violence or intimidation during and after the elections.
Preserving Ghana’s Democratic Legacy
Jonathan described Ghana as a beacon of democracy, highlighting the need to protect its democratic achievements. “By working together, Ghanaians can once again assert the country’s position as a model of democracy built on a tradition of peaceful, free, fair, and transparent elections,” he said.
The WAEF delegation’s visit underscores its commitment to supporting peaceful elections and democratic stability in West Africa.
