As Ghanaians head to the polls on December 7, the Young Adult Cadet Corps (YACC), a non-governmental organization committed to promoting intercultural understanding and preventing youth involvement in violence, has delivered a resounding call for peace.
Mr. Ismail Sulaiman, the Commandant of YACC, shared a powerful message with The Online Times team, urging citizens to prioritize Ghana’s democratic stability during the elections and beyond.
A Legacy of Anti-Violence Advocacy
Since its establishment, YACC has spearheaded initiatives aimed at equipping young people with skills for peacebuilding and violence prevention. In 2015, in collaboration with then Commanding Officer of the Police Counter-Terrorism Unit, now Upper East Regional Police Commander, DCOP Raymond Adofiem, the organization launched the Anti-Violence Advocacy Program under the Project Bambo Initiative.
This groundbreaking program has trained over 3,000 student cadets to serve as anti-violence advocates, reaching over 40 constituencies across five regions of Ghana. Additionally, the program has engaged with over 300 private schools, educating students and communities on the devastating effects of violence and the importance of proactive prevention.
Through workshops and community outreach, the YACC has shared practical measures for spotting and reporting potential threats to the police, fostering a culture of vigilance and cooperation.
Campaign for Peaceful Elections
In preparation for this year’s elections, the YACC intensified its efforts by taking to the principal streets of Accra to educate young people on the importance of peace before, during, and after the elections. The campaign emphasized non-violence as a cornerstone of national development and democratic progress.
Delivering his statement, Commandant Ismail Sulaiman underscored the significance of peaceful elections in building Ghana’s future:
“As we prepare to cast our votes, let us remember that elections are not just about choosing leaders—they are about building the future of Ghana. A peaceful election reflects our strength as a united and democratic nation.”
He also appealed directly to the youth, highlighting their critical role in safeguarding the nation’s democracy:
“To the youth of Ghana, your energy and passion are the heartbeat of our future. Do not let anyone exploit you for violence. Say no to acts that threaten our peace. Stand tall as advocates of progress and guardians of our democracy.”
A Call for Support
While commending the strides made through its initiatives, the YACC also called on corporate organizations, civil society groups, and the international community to support its mission. Commandant Sulaiman emphasized the need for resources to sustain the organization’s impactful work in public education and violence prevention.
“Together, let us show the world that Ghana is a beacon of hope, unity, and peace. Vote responsibly, and let’s build a stronger nation for generations to come,” Sulaiman said.
Strengthening the Peace Advocacy Movement
The YACC’s continued efforts have earned widespread recognition for their contribution to national security and development. With increased backing from stakeholders, the organization hopes to expand its reach, ensuring that more communities, especially vulnerable ones, are educated on the dangers of violence and the importance of maintaining peace.
As Ghana prepares for its ninth general election under the Fourth Republic, the YACC’s message resonates strongly: a peaceful election is not just a democratic right but a duty to the nation’s future.
