The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), in partnership with the Inter-Party Dialogue Committee (IPDC), held a successful Parliamentary Candidates Dialogue at the Mpraeso Lorry Station on November 20, 2024.
The event aimed to enhance voter education by providing a platform for parliamentary candidates to share their policies and priorities while promoting inclusive dialogue with underrepresented groups.
The program commenced at 2:05 p.m. with an opening prayer led by Mr. Francis Agyei-Wiafe, Patron of the Mpraeso Senior High Civic Education Club. Rev. Isaac Twum Boateng, Chairman of the IPDC, delivered the opening remarks, underscoring the importance of issue-based campaigns and peaceful electoral processes.
In her welcome address, Ms. Ticklar Asante-Asiamah, Municipal Director of the NCCE, emphasized the event’s significance in deepening democratic engagement. She noted that the dialogue aligns with the NCCE’s mandate to promote tolerance, issue-based campaigns, and peaceful elections, while empowering voters to make informed choices.
The dialogue brought together key stakeholders and an audience of engaged constituents. Parliamentary candidates in attendance included Mr. Davis Ansah Opoku of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Ms. Augustina Asante of the Ghana Union Movement (GUM), and Mr. Michael Osei of the Convention People’s Party (CPP). The National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Mr. Muhaiyedeen Kaleem, was notably absent. Other dignitaries present included Hon. Emmanuel Atta-Ofori Snr., Municipal Chief Executive, and Mr. Simon Ofori, a member of the NCCE Commission.
Berima Atuobi Yiadom moderated the event, while a monitoring team led by NCCE Regional Director Madam Ophelia Ankrah ensured proceedings adhered to civic education standards. Security was provided by personnel from the Mpraeso Divisional Police Command, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), Immigration Service, and National Fire Service.
The event also featured participation from traditional leaders, including Nana Ayom and the Zongo Chief, as well as the Chief Imam of Côte d’Ivoire, who offered a symbolic international presence. Media coverage was robust, with outlets like Atinka TV, Republic FM, and Obuoba FM broadcasting the dialogue.
Discussions centered on issues highlighted in the NCCE’s “Matters of Concern to the Ghanaian Voter” research, including governance, education, healthcare, youth employment, and security. Each candidate presented their vision for addressing these concerns, engaged directly with constituents, and committed to peaceful campaigns. An interactive session allowed socially excluded groups to voice their concerns directly to the candidates.
The event concluded at 5:30 p.m. with a closing prayer by the Chief Imam of Côte d’Ivoire. Participants commended the NCCE and IPDC for fostering a peaceful, inclusive, and informative dialogue that clarified candidates’ stances on critical issues.
The NCCE reaffirmed its dedication to promoting civic education and peaceful electoral processes, emphasizing its role in strengthening Ghana’s democracy. As the 2024 elections approach, the commission continues to champion voter engagement and informed decision-making.
