By King Amoah.
As Ghana gears up for another crucial electoral season, political analysts are raising alarm bells over the potential for violence and unrest among the youth.
Mr. Seth Opoku Agyeman, a prominent political analyst based in Kumasi, has issued a heartfelt plea to politicians, urging them to steer clear of tactics that could incite violence, particularly through the manipulation of young people with financial incentives.
He reiterated that the practice of utilizing financial inducements to mobilize youth for political violence has become a worrying trend.
Mr. Agyeman emphasizes that this not only jeopardizes the safety and security of communities but also risks destabilizing the country’s democratic processes.
“The youth are the future of this nation, and their potential should not be exploited for political gain,” he stated during an interview with the this reporter.
According to him the escalating political tensions leading up to elections often create a perfect storm for opportunistic behavior.
Politicians he stressed, in their desperation to secure votes, may resort to unethical practices, including bribery and incitement to violence.
Mr. Agyeman warns that such actions could have far-reaching consequences, leading to unrest that transcends electoral competition and affects societal cohesion.
He urged political leaders to adopt a more responsible approach to campaigning, emphasizing that genuine engagement with the youth should be grounded in dialogue and empowerment rather than coercion. “Instead of attempting to buy their allegiance with money, politicians should invest in programs that educate and empower young people, enabling them to make informed choices,” he said.
Furthermore, Mr. Agyeman called upon civil society organizations and community leaders to play a proactive role in promoting peace and encouraging civic responsibility among the youth. Initiatives aimed at conflict resolution, dialogue, and pedagogy around democratic processes can equip young voters with the tools needed to resist manipulation and make their voices heard constructively.
The youth, who constitute a significant portion of Ghana’s electorate, hold immense power in shaping the nation’s political landscape.
Therefore engaging them positively, instead of exploiting their vulnerabilities, can foster a more stable and democratic environment.
Mr. Agyeman emphasizes that it is the responsibility of every Ghanaian to ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted peacefully, without the shadow of violence or intimidation.
