Ghanaians must keep the peace – US Expert

A retired United States diplomat who has dedicated his life to building peace and preventing violence around the world has advised Ghanaians not to take the peaceful environment in the country for granted.

John Graham, who is the Director of US-based Giraffe Heroes International (GHI), said as Ghanaians go into an election in November, the stakes are going to be high and that it is up to the key actors to act responsibly and reasonably to ensure that the country continues to set a leadership example in the sub-region.

“Elections are coming up in November. People seem to be edgy. There are very simple issues that could trigger violence when not well handled,” he told DAILY GUIDE on Tuesday.

According to Mr Graham, the terror threat that has hit West Africa following attacks in some West African countries is real. He was, however, quick to add that Ghana appears to have strong institutions capable of dealing with some of the threats.

“Ghana looks like a hard target to me. Accra is a less likely target, but that does not mean the terrorists can’t strike here.”

Mr Graham, who is in the country to give a lecture on peace-building and conflict prevention, said “you have half a dozen ways of generating violence. Issues of corruption, tribalism, insecurity can all bring violence.”

He said every nation needs active citizens to participate in the process of development and determine the future of the country, saying, “nobody should wait for someone else to take action because this might never get done.”

He said his foundation was still committed to offering inspiration and practical tools for building ethical and competent leadership, resolving conflicts and solving public problems.

“GHI provides civic engagement and service-learning programmes for schools and youth organisations, helping kids build lives of courageous and compassionate service. In addition to forming global partnerships, GHI has been engaged in significant peace-building initiatives in several countries.”

He said, “by combating corruption, easing poverty or disease, ending conflicts, protecting the environment, advocating for women’s rights, we are sticking their necks out for the common good.”