The Accra Diocese of the Methodist Church has launched a campaign called “The Methodist Youth Against Vigilantism and Violence” to address election-related violence and vigilantism.
The initiative aims to empower and guide the youth, particularly those within the Methodist community, in promoting peace and responsible behavior during the lead-up to the December 7 elections.
Very Rev Dr. Samuel Nii Nmai Ollennu, Bishop of the Accra Diocese of the Methodist Church, launched the initiative on Sunday, urged the youth to remain diligent and disciplined in the face of potential temptations.
He stressed the need for them to remain committed to peace and responsible behaviour, particularly before and after the elections.
The launch took place at the Rev. Joseph Thomas Clegg Memorial Methodist Church in Kaneshie.
Key stakeholders, including the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), the Greater Accra Regional Peace Council, and the Police, engaged with the congregation, and emphasised the importance of the campaign in promoting peace and preventing violence during the upcoming elections.
Very Rev Dr. Ollennu noted that while older individuals lacked the physical strength to engage in violence, some could still ill-advise the youth to incite chaos.
He urged the youth to distance themselves from such negative influences.
Madam Lucille Hewlett Annan, Commission Secretary of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), asked the youth to critically evaluate election messages and promises, rather than accepting them without question.
She outlined the NCCE’s key pillars for the upcoming election, which focus on promoting religious tolerance, combating misinformation, preventing violent and inflammatory language, and addressing the monetization of politics.
“Religion has never been a problem for us. Let us not make religion an issue.
“The issues to vote on should be issues of development and the economy. Who is best ready or capable of solving our problems, she said.
Madam Annan noted that it was in both individual and national interests to reject monetary offers from politicians, warning that such money often comes with strings attached.
She highlighted that accepting such funds could lead to a cycle of repayment that detracts from essential developmental projects, urging the youth to prioritize integrity over financial gain, and to contribute to a more accountable political environment.
Dr. Afua Boatemaa Yakohene, a member of the Greater Accra Regional Peace Council, emphasised the importance of cultivating a culture of peace, stating, “Peace is not a choice; it is essential for our nation’s growth and prosperity.”
She urged everyone to practice tolerance and to appreciate and accept diversity, stating that a harmonious society ws crucial for collective development.
Chief Inspector Samuel Kaledzi, Station Officer of the Kaneshie Police Divisional Command, urged the youth to embrace their responsibilities as outlined in the 1992 Constitution.
Drawing on scripture, he encouraged the congregation to look to Galatians 5:22, which called for Christians to embody peace, accountability, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Mr. Frank Spencer Forson, Accra Diocesan Vice Chairman, Methodist Youth Development Ministry, said although the first edition of the initiative was held four years ago, this year’s campaign would feature a range of engaging activities.
These include zonal floats in various communities, informational talks, peace marches, and even football matches, all aimed at raising awareness and sensitizing the public against violence as the elections approach.
Source: GNA
