Civil society prepare for district level polls

By William Yaw Owusu

Saturday February 27, 2010
A workshop aimed at preparing civil society adequately towards the impending district level elections has been held for about 60 participants in Techiman in the Brong Ahafo Region.

The event which was replicated in Nkoranza District was organized by the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) with sponsorship from the Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAF).

Speaking on the subject “Campaign strategies to win district level elections,” a resource person, Kofi Gyan of the Africa Peer Review Mechanism urged participants not to underestimate effective campaigning which he said “helps the electorate to make right and informed choices.”

He said every candidate should be able to understand the demographics of the locality where he or she operates and develop appropriate messages which the electorate will appreciate.

“As a candidate, you should be able to factor into your plans the needs and aspirations of the people so that you will command their support.”

Mr. Gyan asked participants to also consider resource mobilization, sufficient use of time as well as respect for their opponents and live above reproach in their endeavours.

Emmanuel Danso of the District Assemblies Common Fund Secretariat, speaking on “How to lobby to win an election at the district level” said campaign messages should not create doubt in the minds of the electorate but should rather be appealing and attractive.

He said it is the responsibility of civil society organisations to influence district assemblies and other policy makers on how to implement the right projects to benefit the people.

“Get involved in local initiatives; encourage others to participate; make compromises with local decision makers and take active interest in local issues to ensure accelerated development.”

Isaac Owusu-Mensah, Senior Programmes Manager of KAF said the foundation is committed to encouraging civil societies to be actively involved in the development of democracy at the local level.

Jimmy Yeboah Asiamah, Techiman Municipal Secretary of GUTA said the association would support government to raise the standard of living of the people.