Democratic and constitutional government are most preferred choice; avoid coups – National House of Chiefs
The National House of Chiefs has urged Ghanaians to reject suggestions that coup d’état is an alternative to democratic rule.
In the past few months, some analysts have cautioned that the poor state of the country’s economy may make Ghana susceptible to coup orchestrations.
Recently, the Dean of the University of Ghana School Of Law, Prof. Raymond Atuguba, expressed concern about the country’s current financial state being a threat to its democracy.
“We do not want a coup in this country. Yet I fear that if we do not act quickly, we may have one in our hands very soon,” he said while delivering a lecture in Accra.
But National House of Chiefs President, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, believes most Ghanaians prefer a democratic system of governance to military rule.
Speaking during a National House of Chiefs meeting in Kumasi, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II noted that military governments do not address the socio-economic challenges of a nation.
“In recent times, the word coup or military takeovers has become a very common expression for some people in society. It must be emphasised that irrespective of the form, nature and composition of the military government, democratic and constitutional government is the most preferred choice for majority of Ghanaians.
“The country has witnessed a number of military interventions in the political history, which to a very large extent did not properly address the political and social aspirations of the country.”
Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo while speaking at the 65th Independence Day parade in Cape Coast, assured that his government will fiercely resist any coup attempts.
“The great majority of us who are committed to democratic values and institutions will continue to resist the claims of these adventurers and deploy all legitimate means in our democracy to maintain our free open system of governance which has respect for human rights, the rule of law and the principles of democratic accountability.
“Let us guard jealously the peace and stability we are enjoying. There are some restless spirits amongst us who, seeking to exploit the current difficulties confronting the nation, claim to have lost confidence in our democratic system,’ the President said.
Currently, there are two different trials ongoing against persons charged with treason-related offences.
Source: Ghana News
