The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) says sustainable national development and improvement in the standard of living among ordinary Ghanaians requires a collective sense of responsibility from all Ghanaians.

The Garu District Director of the Commission, Samuel Akolgo, said the Commission believes in the collective contribution and participation of all Ghanaians as a strong catalyst for sustainable development.

He, therefore, underscored the need for Ghanaians to cultivate the spirit of nationalism and patriotism, and resolve to work together to address challenges facing the country’s progress.

Mr Akolgo made the call when the Commission engaged some identified groups at Gbetuasig, Benguri, Tanzug, Siguuri and Kugpeilla communities in the Garu District of the Upper East Region as part of activities marking this year’s Annual Constitution Week.

He explained that ensuring peace and peaceful coexistence is not only key to deepening democracy, but it is imperative for advancing development. He urged Ghanaians to work to consciously protect the prevailing peace before, during and after the 2024 general election.

“Ghanaians must ensure that the 2024 general election is held based on issues and in an atmosphere of peace devoid of assaults, rancour, acrimony, intimidation, and violence,” he added.

“Regional security threats and activities of violent extremists in neighbouring countries pose security concerns to Ghana’s peace and there is the need to support the security agencies to prevent any spillover,”  the District Director said.

Apart from that, he said, internal factors such as ethnic and religious tensions and comments by some politicians also pose threats to the country’s peace, and underscored the need to safeguard it.

“It is the citizens of Ghana who should resolve to come together to work conscientiously at addressing these challenges identified such as vote buying, corruption, economic hardships, misinformation and disinformation,” Mr Akolgo said.

He added: “Every citizen, for instance, whether a teacher, medical doctor, lawyer, judge, Speaker of Parliament, President, a media practitioner, soldier, clergy, trader, farmer, fishmonger or student is obligated to abide by the laws of the nation.”

He reiterated the commitment of the NCCE to continuously instil civic rights and responsibility in Ghanaians to ensure they play their part in the development process.

Source: GNA