As Ghanaians prepare to go to the polls in the upcoming general elections, the call for peace has become a familiar refrain. Politicians, civil society organizations, and religious leaders are all preaching the gospel of peace. However, amidst this cacophony of peace declarations, a critical component is often overlooked: justice.
The stark reality is that peace and justice are inextricably linked. One cannot exist without the other. Yet, in our haste to achieve peace, we often neglect the pursuit of justice. This oversight is not only misguided but also doomed to fail. Peace without justice is a hollow shell, devoid of substance and sustainability.
In the context of Ghana’s upcoming elections, the pursuit of justice is more crucial than ever. As citizens, we must demand that our leaders prioritize justice and accountability. We must insist that they address the grievances of the past and work towards creating a more just and equitable society.
The Electoral Commission, the security agencies, and the judiciary must all play their part in ensuring that the elections are free, fair, and transparent. Anything less would be a betrayal of the trust that the Ghanaian people have placed in them.
As we move closer to the elections, let us remember that peace goes with justice. Let us not be seduced by the superficial allure of peace without justice. Instead, let us strive for a more nuanced and sustainable approach, one that recognizes the intricate relationship between peace and justice.
Only then can we hope to build a Ghana that is truly at peace, a Ghana in which justice reigns supreme, and the rights of all citizens are respected and protected.
