The Programme which was aimed at creating an atmosphere of tolerance and awareness of voters on the need to adopt the culture of tolerance to promote peace was on the theme: “Empowering the Youth to Stand Up For Ghana for a Peaceful Election 2016”.

The forum supported by the European Union (EU) also forms part of activities lined up by the NCCE to deepened Political interest of electorates in the upcoming general elections.

Speaking at a day’s workshop at the Sankore Assemblies of God Church, the Acting Commissioner of NCCE Mr. Samuel Akuamoah Boateng called on all Political Parties to sensitize their supporters to eschew all forms of unhealthy behaviour likely to threaten the peace of Ghana in the upcoming elections.

Mr. Akuamoah Boateng noted that, election is a contest of ideas; Policies and Programmes intended to better the lives of the people and therefore asked the Political Parties to tolerate each other’s view as they propagate their campaign message to the electorates.

He further admonished activist of the various Political Parties to refrain from personally attacking the Electoral Commissioner and her team but rather focus on their campaign messages that will canvas for votes.

The District Electoral Officer Mr. Tetteh Ankamah Okyne urged Political Parties, to educate their Party Agents on regulations governing the CI 94. He said election is not all about casting of votes but a cumulative process which includes registration of votes, voters register exhibition, filing of nominations among others.

The District Police Commander DSP Simon Peter Akabati who spoke on the topic: “Public Order Act and Election 2016:Prospects and Challenges”, said the Police Administration will not spare anyone who violates the electioneering process and urged the general public and key players in the election to play their roles appropriately devoid of bias to ensure free and fair election.

For his part the Asunafo South District Director of the Commission, Mr. Francis Nana Akakpo expressed concern about the alleged occurrence of vote buying during elections. He said the practice was dangerous and did not only violate ones voting right but could also derail efficiency in the country’s Political System.

He hinted that his outfit has identified some hot spots in the District and will intensify voter education in those areas to ensure violent-free polls come December 7, 2016.