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Unpublished Paper
Building National Infrastructures for Peace in Africa: Understanding the Role of the National Peace Council in Ghana
(2013)
  • Emmanuel Wekem Kotia, Kennesaw State University
  • Festus Kofi Aubyn
Abstract

In this article, we provide an analysis of Ghana’s infrastructures for peace using the National Peace Council (NPC) as a case study. The article focuses on the composition, structures, tasks, achievements and challenges of the NPC. It argues that the NPC has made significant contributions in preventing and managing acts of violence that could have plunge Ghana into conflict. Its unique roles during the 2012 elections in Ghana are a testament to this assertion. Although some forms of violence did occur during the elections, our argument is that the violence would have become far worse if the NPC had not existed. Two key factors explain why the NPC was relatively successful in this regard. The first is its national mandate, independence and adoption of a bi-partisan approach in dealing with violence which has enhanced its credibility, legitimacy and sustainability. The second is the calibre of the members of the NPC who are not only respected and trusted but have the competence, knowledge and experience in matters relating to peaceful conflict resolution. These are some of the exceptional characteristics that underpin the relative accomplishments of the NPC which other Africa countries can emulate in establishing their architecture for peace.

Keywords
  • ghana,
  • national peace council,
  • political infrastructure,
  • internal conflict,
  • internal politics
Publication Date
2013
Citation Information
Emmanuel Wekem Kotia and Festus Kofi Aubyn. "Building National Infrastructures for Peace in Africa: Understanding the Role of the National Peace Council in Ghana" (2013)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/emmanuel_kotia/10/