Festus Mogae says Ghana’s democratic credentials recognized globally

Mr Festus Mogae, Former President of Botswana, has commended Ghana for her quality democratic governance, which he said had been recognized across the globe.

He said Ghana’s high ratings, among the leading democratic country on the African continent, was because of the good quality of leadership exhibited by the past governments.

“In democracy, leaders lead by example and the past leaders of this country showed good leadership skills and paved the way for peace and development”, he said.

Mr. Mogae said this when he delivered a lecture on the theme: “Credible Elections and Governance in Africa,” which was organised by the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana).

The event, which aims to ensure that the December Elections are credible and the outcomes acceptable to all, was attended by leaders of political parties, religious leaders and former President John Jerry Rawlings.

Mr Mogae called for strong citizens participation in the elections process, saying it was dangerous to leave it in the hands of the politicians alone.

“It is critical for all citizens to effectively participate in the elections process. Elections must not be left in the hands of politicians alone,” he said, adding that as interested persons, politicians cannot be trusted not to manipulate the electoral process to their personal advantage.

He said Ghana needed men and women of integrity who would work without partisan considerations for the development and progress of the country. Mr Mogae called on Ghanaians to maintain the country’s credibility during this year’s elections by working towards free, fair and transparent elections to promote development.

Source: GNA