By Paschal Norbert
ACCRA, DECEMBER 13, 2024 (CISA) – The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) has issued a strong statement condemning the violence, rioting, and looting that have erupted across the country following the December 7, 2024, General Elections.
In a press statement dated December 10, 2024, and signed by the President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, Most Rev Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, the bishops expressed deep concern over the loss of lives, destruction of property, and deepened societal divisions.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the acts of violence, rioting, and looting that have disrupted peace and stability in parts of our beloved country. This wave of unrest has led to the loss of lives, destruction of property, and deepened divisions among our citizens. Such actions are unacceptable and go against the core values of peace, unity, and respect for life that we, as a nation, hold dear,” the statement read.
The Catholic bishops called for an immediate cessation of violent activities and urged all Ghanaians to uphold the peace that has been a hallmark of the nation’s democratic processes. They further encouraged political party leaders to exercise responsible leadership and use their influence to restore calm.
The 2024 General Elections in Ghana, held on December 7, were hotly contested, with tensions running high throughout the campaign season. Ghana’s opposition candidate and former President John Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) emerged victorious, defeating the incumbent New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, in a decisive win.
Mahama secured 56.6% of the vote, while Bawumia garnered 41.6%, marking the largest margin of victory in Ghana’s presidential elections in 24 years. Following his victory, Mahama promised “a new beginning, a new direction” for the nation, pledging to address the challenges facing Ghana and unite the country after years of political division.
The NDC’s return to power after eight years in opposition has sparked celebrations among its supporters. However, there have also been reports of violent clashes in some areas, particularly among disgruntled supporters of the NPP, raising concerns about national stability.
In their statement, the Catholic Bishops urged law enforcement to act decisively against perpetrators of violence while ensuring fairness and professionalism.
“We urge the Ghana Police and other security services to remain vigilant and professional. We further urge them to deal more decisively with all those involved in the mayhem, treating them as the criminals that they are, regardless of their party affiliations,” the bishops stated.
The bishops also called for religious leaders, civil society organizations, and the general public to join efforts to restore peace and cohesion, emphasizing that dialogue, mutual respect, and unity are critical for overcoming these turbulent times. Addressing political leaders directly, the prelates urged them to prioritize the nation’s well-being over partisan interests.
“Your role as leaders goes beyond seeking power – it involves guiding your followers with wisdom, promoting peace, and ensuring the well-being of every Ghanaian,” the statement emphasized.
