In a recent statement, Solomon Owusu, a prominent figure in the Movement for Change, has called for the immediate dissolution of Ghana's Peace Council. Owusu harshly criticized the institution, labeling it as a waste of taxpayer money and questioning its contribution to the nation's peace-building efforts. His remarks have sparked a debate on the relevance and effectiveness of the Peace Council in the current political landscape.
Speaking at a public event, Owusu directed his appeal to presidential hopeful Alan Kyerematen, urging him to consider dismantling the Peace Council should he be elected as the next president. "One of the institutions I would encourage Alan to scrap when he becomes president is the Peace Council. It is a total waste of tax revenue," Owusu asserted, expressing his dissatisfaction with the council’s operations.
The Peace Council, established to promote peace and conflict resolution in Ghana, has been under scrutiny for its perceived lack of impact. Owusu's criticism centers on what he sees as the council's failure to contribute meaningfully to the country's peace efforts, particularly in the face of rising tensions and conflicts. He questioned the council's ability to fulfill its mandate and called for a reassessment of its role in the country's governance structure.
Owusu’s comments come at a time when many Ghanaians are concerned about the effectiveness of various state institutions. His suggestion to dismantle the Peace Council aligns with a broader sentiment among some citizens who believe that certain governmental bodies have outlived their usefulness or are not delivering on their promises.
In his speech, Owusu also criticized the current leadership of the Peace Council, including its chairman, Professor Emmanuel Asante, though he stopped short of calling for their immediate resignation. Instead, he focused on the need for a broader reform of the council, advocating for its replacement with a more effective mechanism for peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
As the 2024 elections approach, such statements from influential political figures like Solomon Owusu are likely to resonate with voters who are dissatisfied with the status quo. Alan Kyerematen, who is considered a frontrunner in the presidential race, has yet to publicly respond to Owusu’s suggestion. However, the call to dissolve the Peace Council is expected to spark further discussions on the future of the institution and its role in Ghana’s democracy.
The Peace Council’s mandate and performance will likely become a topic of significant debate in the coming months, as Ghanaians evaluate the effectiveness of their governance structures in ensuring peace and stability in the country.
