Vigilantism: We’re ready for dialogue – Peace Council Chair

The chairman of the National Peace Council, Reverend Emmanuel Asante, has said his end is ready to mediate talks on party vigilantism concerning the two main political parties in Ghana.

According to him, the Peace Council is ready to give the requisite support needed to bring vigilantism to an end in the country.

The acceptance has been necessitated by the proposal of the Chairman of the NDC, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo seeking for an expansion to the discussions asking that all political parties, civil society organizations, representatives of the media, representatives of the military, police and other security agencies, as well as any other relevant stakeholders should be included to the discussion.

The NDC further asked the President to appoint the chairman of the Peace Council to mediate the discussions.

“The phenomenon has appeared to take some root in the fabric of our politics, it is only prudent that the call for a disbandment is extended to not only the National Democratic Congress and the New Patriotic Party, but all political parties, civil society organisations, representatives of the media, representatives of the military, police and other security agencies, as well as any other relevant stakeholders.

“In addition, in view of the often recurrent mistrust and suspicion that characterize such interactions by political parties, and the pain and suffering that vigilantism may have created especially in the recent past, it is of the utmost importance that a mediator with national credibility be appointed to drive the entire process. In that regard, my party, the NDC, propose that the National peace Council be appointed as the mediator for such a meeting.”

However in a response signed by George Amoah, Executive Secretary of the Peace Council said, “The National Peace Council wants to assure you that it stands prepared to provide the necessary assistance and facilitation should the parties agree to the call for the Council to facilitate mediation”.

The Peace Council says it appreciates the recognition given it by the party as it falls in line with its role of resolving conflicts that have the tendency of destabilizing peace in the country.

“The Council acknowledges your letter with gratitude for recognizing the role that the Council could play in finding solution to the worrying issue of violent political vigilantism in our national politics.”

“The call on the Council to mediate in the matter falls within the mandate of the Council which states in section two (2) of Act 818 thus ‘the object of the Council is to facilitate and develop mechanisms for conflict prevention, management, resolution and to build sustainable peace in the country, the statement added.”