The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, says the Forth Republic has come to stay and that, “it will stay and our grandchildren will come and continue from where we left off.”
He has, therefore, called on all Ghanaians, both young and old, male and female, to work together to sustain it for future generations.
The IGP was speaking at a ceremony at the police headquarters yesterday, where the Democracy Cup that has been donated by the Speaker of Parliament was presented to him by the second Deputy Speaker, Andrew Amoako Asiamah.
The democracy match will be played between Accra Heart of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko at the Accra Sport Stadium, today, Wednesday July 17, 2024 and the winner will be presented with the cup.
According to IGP Dampare, generations yet unborn would only benefit from the Forth Republic if the current generation choose the path of peace.
“Let us all be on board and get it sustained and get it progressively developed for the good of ourselves, for our children and their children,” he said.
He added that the National Election Security Task Force, comprising all the security agencies under the leadership of the police institution and all other security apparatus of the country are committed to sustaining the peace, law and order during this election period and beyond.
“It is in the same vein that we also want to let you know that as we have invited Ghanaians to join on the fourth republican democratic journey, which will outlive us, which will outlive our children and which will outlive our grandchildren, we ask that bear with us and trust us that our commitment to ensure peace and sustenance is firm and without question,” he said.
Dr. Dampare promised that the police would continuously play its part in concert with all other stakeholders to ensure that Ghana stay on top as the beacon of hope and a leader, where everybody comes to learn good lessons.
In a symbolic gesture celebrating Ghana’s democratic journey, Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Andrew Amoako Asiamah, presented the Democracy Cup to the Inspector General of Police.
This event highlighted the significance of the 1992 Constitution, which marked the beginning of the Fourth Republic.
Mr. Asiamah reflected on the nation’s democratic evolution over the past 30 years, noting the various political regimes that preceded the current constitution.
“We have travelled about 30 years since the 7th of January, 1993 when our democracy took a firm root,” he stated.
“Parliament is the centerpiece of our democracy and we have taken it upon ourselves to educate Ghanaians about its importance.”
Mr. Asiamah detailed the extensive outreach efforts made by Parliament to engage citizens across the country, including visits to northern and southern regions, where they interacted with local chiefs, stakeholders and students. These initiatives included mock parliamentary sessions aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of democratic processes.
The Second Deputy Speaker emphasised the themes of tolerance and patience, urging citizens to recognise their role in shaping the country’s leadership every four years through voting.
“If you are not pleased with the current leadership, the opportunity to effect change will come,” he noted.
The presentation of the Democracy Cup a symbolic representation of competition in governance, serves to remind citizens that democracy thrives on choices and peaceful transitions of power. He stated, “This cup is a reminder that after competition, one person will win and we must ensure peace regardless of the outcome.”
As he concluded his address, the deputy Speaker called on the Ghana Police Service and all citizens to uphold the peace and integrity of the upcoming elections.
“We must work together to preserve the peace of our country, especially as we approach the December 7th elections.”
The event underscored the collaborative efforts between Parliament and the Ghana Police Service to ensure a smooth and peaceful electoral process.
Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, Deputy Clerk of Parliament, in charge of Corporate and Financial Management Services, spoke about the significance of the Democracy Cup as part of the ongoing 30th anniversary celebrations of Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
Mr Djietror noted, the initiative is designed to enhance public engagement with democratic values. He highlighted a series of events, led by the Speaker of Parliament, including public forums, parliamentary sessions and outreach activities that have taken place across various regions.
“The Democracy Cup conveys a powerful message to Ghanaians,” Djietror stated, likening the unity fostered by football to the spirit of democracy.
He remarked on the growing achievements of women’s soccer in the country, stating “Our women are even doing better than us if you look at the national soccer team.”
The Deputy Clerk explained that the celebration has involved key state functionaries, including the President, who was the first to receive the Cup, and the Chief Justice.
Mr Djietror emphasised the importance of collaboration among all branches of government, including the Ghana Police Service and the Ministry of Defence, to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
“We cannot achieve peace and security in our country without the support of the Ghana Police Service,” he remarked, underlining the critical role of law enforcement in maintaining order during upcoming elections.
As part of the initiative, Parliament has also engaged students across the nation, promoting civic education and awareness of democratic processes.
Mr Djietror expressed anticipation for the upcoming football match between Kumasi Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak, noting that it serves as a perfect opportunity to reinforce the message of unity and cooperation.
