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Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah has been unveiled as the Peace Ambassador by the National Peace Council chairman Rev Emmanuel Asante ahead of Ghana’s General elections in November 7, 2016.
 
The ex-National hero on Monday was outdoored to the public during the launch of the Unity match which is expected to come off in June this year.

The event also saw ex-England captain and Arsenal defender Sol Campbell as well as Ghana-born former Dutch international George Boateng who are all playing roles to help promote peace in Ghana ahead of the November polls.

Appiah, one of the iconic figures in the country after his immense exploit with the Black Stars when he led the team to their first Cup of Nations appearances in 2006 together with his colleagues Sol Campbell and George Boateng are expected to use their influence to help promote tranquility among Ghanaians ahead of the elections.

The 36-year-old in a speech at the launch said: As the former Black Stars captain as well as former international footballer I strongly believe my status today has been made possible by Ghana. From the moment I was offered my first opportunity to wear the national colours and through my days with the various national teams till I was made the captain of the Black Stars.

“Which was the highlight of my career, for me I believe Ghana has been so good to me and one of the best ways to give back my beloved country is to commit myself to its development which can only be achieved by fostering an atmosphere of peace and unity.”

The celebrated Ghanaian footballer went on to urge Ghanaians to maintain peace and unity ahead of the impending elections.

“It is a popular knowledge that election in our part of the World are stained with pocket of violence seeming from political differences and other factors. Yes I’m of the view that here in Ghana we must not let this factor divide us let alone wipe or threatened to wipe the democratic gains we have made over the years. In my opinion I see election to be similar to the game of football there are two possible outcomes a win or lose, there are opposing sides who supporters have made huge emotional investment and can go extreme length just to see their favourite team win there is a referee to ensure the rules are obeyed. “

As a measure to foster Peace, Unity and harmony among Ghanaians, a football match between Ghana’s Asante Kotoko and a World Select side will be played at the Babayara Sports Stadium in June this year.

Ghana’s Black Stars will also take on the World selected side in another friendly at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Ghana will be going to the polls on November 7 to elect a president for the next four years.