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Mr Saani Abdul-Razak, Northern Regional Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), has noted that the declaration of election results by political parties is an illegal activity that must not be tolerated.

He expressed worry that many individuals and political activists have in the past taken upon themselves the role of the Electoral Commission by announcing election results.

He said such acts must not stop.

Mr Abdul-Razak was addressing the Ninth Annual Regional Community Based Organisation (CBO) festival organised by the Ghana Developing Communities Association (GDCA) in Tamale.

The annual forum was attended by civil society organisations operating in the Region as well as non-governmental organisations and individuals.

Mr Abdul-Razak warned that declaration of election results could attract two years imprisonment or a fine of 500 penalty unites.

He said destruction of properties of the political parties including posters and other paraphernalia is also an offence that must be avoided to ensure the that the processes leading to the December 7 general election are smooth.

The NCCE Director expressed worry over suppression of voter’s choices by spouses, explaining that it is an affront to the fundamental human rights of the victims.

He said every individual has the right to vote for any candidate or political party of he or her choice.

Mr Abdul-Razak urged CBOs to get themselves abreast of the country’s current electoral laws in order to deepen voter education.

“CBOs are change agents, you must exercise your responsibilities effectively,” he said.

Hajia Mariama Yakubu, Regional Chairperson for CBOs underscored the importance of CBOs in community advocacy and development and advised the public to be peace ambassadors to ensure peace during and after the December polls.

She observed that there cannot be any credible elections in an atmosphere of violence and entreated Ghanaians to embrace peace for development of their communities.

Mr Philip Gmabi, Programme Officer of GDCA said through the efforts of CBOs, many developmental activities had begun in many parts of northern Ghana.

He said advocacy activities of CBOs had culminated in the construction of the Eastern corridor roads, where he indicated that work is being done steadily.