Catholic Bishops Warn: Electoral Violence Undermines Ghana’s Democracy
Electoral Violence Undermines Ghana’s Democracy — Catholic Bishops Warn
The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) has strongly condemned the recent wave of electoral violence, especially the attacks that marred the Ablekuma North Constituency rerun on July 11, 2025. In a public statement issued on July 22, the bishops described the assaults including the brutalisation of journalists and voters as violations of human dignity and an assault on the foundations of Ghana’s democracy.
Accountability is Urgent
The bishops did not mince words. According to the statement signed by Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, GCBC President, the state must act decisively. They demanded “prompt, thorough, and transparent investigations” into the incidents, warning that impunity corrodes public trust and enables lawlessness.
“Perpetrators must be held fully accountable,” the statement emphasized.
Furthermore, they urged the government to implement past commission recommendations on electoral violence. Delays, they argued, only embolden future misconduct.
Democracy is More Than Voting
While elections are central to democracy, the GCBC reminded the public that true democracy is rooted in justice, rule of law, and respect for human dignity.
“At the heart of this vision lies the sanctity of the ballot and the imperative of peaceful elections,” the bishops said.
They also warned political parties against viewing elections as a test of might. Rather, elections should serve as a platform for the exchange of ideas, not conflict.
Electoral Institutions Must Do Better
The bishops urged both the Electoral Commission and the security services to rise to the occasion.
“The Electoral Commission must deepen stakeholder engagement to rebuild trust,” the GCBC stressed.
“Security services must act with impartiality, foresight, and professionalism in preventing violence.”
They also appealed to political parties and their supporters to show restraint, emphasizing that national peace should come before party interests, even in competitive climates.
Judiciary Must Remain Independent
A healthy democracy also depends on a free and credible judiciary, the bishops noted. They expressed concern over tensions arising from the suspension of the Chief Justice, cautioning that the judiciary must not be subject to executive control.
“Justice is the cornerstone of national cohesion. Without it, grievances grow, and violence gains ground,” the statement said.
According to the GCBC, removing a sitting Chief Justice is a matter of grave national importance. They called for strict constitutional procedures, fairness, and respect for the separation of powers.
Takeaway: Guarding Democracy Requires Everyone
From citizens to state institutions, the bishops argue that everyone has a role in protecting Ghana’s democracy. Electoral violence, they warn, is a slippery slope that can erode justice, trust, and peace.
In their final appeal, they urged all actors to act conscientiously to uphold the rule of law and protect the dignity of the judiciary for the sake of Ghana’s democratic future.
