Torgbui Badu IV (third right) with some elders on his coronation

The Chief of Anyako, representing the Klevia Clan of Anlo, Torgbui Badu IV has called on the Presi­dent, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to demand from agencies responsible for the organisation of the upcoming Pres­idential and Parliamentary election a free and fair exercise devoid of violence and clashes.

Ghanaians would go to the polls in December to elect a new president and parliamentarians following the expi­ration of President Akufo-Addo and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s second term in office.

Torgbui Badu IV’s concern has come in the wake of chaotic scenes recorded in a few centres that had primaries and by-election to replace deceased Mem­bers of Parliament (MPs).

These, according to him, were signs of mistrust among the key political parties and to an extent, the processes for the exercise.

It is in this light that he called on the president and government to demand for a peaceful election to further under­line Ghana’s democratic credentials.

Speaking with The Spectator over the weekend, Torgbui Badu IV, known in pri­vate life as Paul Dogboe and a promising boxing coach, urged government to adopt a detailed plan aimed at curtail­ing election-related violence.

According to him, it was important to consider initiatives like convening dia­logues, leveraging traditional authori­ties, safeguarding the youth, addressing the various political rhetoric and honour past leaders, adding that, “this can promote unity and a sense of belonging among all.”

Explaining, he said the dialogues with presidential candidates would promote peace education and raise awareness among their adherents, thereby reduc­ing tensions and preventing violence.

He alsobelieves that employing the esteemed influence of chiefs, queens, and other traditional leaders to ensure peace and order, especially in areas vulnerable to electoral unrest was a positive move.

“Engaging traditional authorities would proactively protect the youth in their communities, with a focus on crit­ical locations such as national borders,” he noted.

Torgbui Badu also encouraged polit­ical leaders to eschew derogatory and inflammatory language that could lead to violent incidents.

He said it was important to honour former heads of state in recognition of their commitment and contributions to the nation.

“These measures aim to foster an environment of respect, constructive dialogue, and peaceful engagement throughout Ghana’s electoral process. In the Bible, Romans 13:1-7, highlights the scriptural basis for responsible gover­nance and civil obedience. We should be guided by these to make Ghana a peaceful nation,” Torgbui Badu IV said.

 By Andrew Nortey