The United Kingdom has expressed its commitment to supporting Ghana in ensuring free, fair, and peaceful elections in 2024.
The announcement was made by Ms Harriet Thompson, the UK High Commissioner to Ghana, during a ceremony marking the 75th birthday of His Royal Majesty King Charles III in Accra.
Ms. Thompson commended Ghana for its dedication to democracy and emphasized the importance of nurturing the democratic process.
She stated, “Election periods can be turbulent, but Ghana is widely known for the strength of its democracy. The UK is ready to support Ghana to deliver free, fair, and peaceful elections.”
Ghana is scheduled to elect a new President and Members of Parliament on December 7, 2024, marking the ninth election since the inception of the 4th Republic in 1992.
The ceremony celebrating King Charles III's 75th birthday drew dignitaries from various sectors, including government officials, traditional rulers, members of the diplomatic corps, Members of Parliament, the clergy, representatives of civil society organizations, and the business community.
The Speaker of Parliament, Mr. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, was also in attendance.
The event featured Ghanaian music, cocktails, and displays of innovative solutions by companies addressing climate sustainability gaps.
It showcased King Charles III's commitment and advocacy for biodiversity, the environment, and the UK-Ghana partnership in addressing climate change issues.
Ms Thompson acknowledged the urgency of the climate change emergency and assured that the UK would support Ghana in implementing its Nationally Determined Contributions.
She stated, “Young people, climate sustainability, biodiversity; these are some of the issues that King Charles has championed for decades.”
Mr. Albert Kan-Dapaah, the Minister for National Security, representing the Government of Ghana, expressed gratitude for the historical relationship between Ghana and the UK.
He thanked the United Kingdom for continuous support through various projects and grants aimed at addressing challenges in diverse sectors.
“It is my fervent hope that the reign of His Royal Majesty The King will be marked by enhanced cooperation between our two countries for the mutual benefit of our peoples in the years ahead,” Mr Kan-Dapaah said.
