The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in Atebubu-Amantin has organized a crucial engagement with political parties to address violent extremism ahead of December’s general elections. The European Union-sponsored forum aimed to promote peaceful electoral processes in the constituency.
During the opening remarks, Mr. Patrick Tampugre, Atebubu-Amantin Municipal Director of NCCE, explained that rising violent extremist activities in West Africa necessitated the meeting. He emphasized that election-related disputes often create opportunities for extremists to exploit, making peacebuilding essential before, during, and after the polls.
Chief Superintendent Ceasar Abanga, Atebubu Divisional Police Commander, addressed critical security topics including:
- Monitoring and reporting extremist threats
- Identifying youth radicalization and recruitment signs
- Mediation and local conflict resolution
The police commander stressed that security awareness must begin at home, advising parents to:
- Watch for sudden behavioral changes or unexplained wealth in their children
- Conduct random checks on their wards’ belongings
- Monitor their children’s friendships and leisure activities
- Verify their children’s nighttime whereabouts
“Security is a shared responsibility,” Chief Superintendent Abanga emphasized, urging citizens to actively share information with law enforcement. He highlighted mediation as more effective than court litigation for resolving community conflicts, as it leads to more mutually acceptable outcomes.
On electoral matters, Municipal Electoral Officer Mr. Kennedy Opoku outlined procedures for the ongoing limited voter registration exercise. He specifically warned political parties against attempting to register underage voters.
The engagement brought together diverse stakeholders including:
- Municipal Assembly representatives
- Women’s and youth groups
- Interfaith religious leaders
- Traditional authorities
- Persons with disabilities
- Media representatives
Participants actively contributed questions and suggestions to ensure peaceful elections in December, fostering a collaborative approach to election security.
