Gov't inaugurates new governing board of National Peace Council

The Minister for the Interior and National Security, Mr. Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka, inaugurated the new Governing Board of the National Peace Council (NPC). The ceremony took place at Jubilee House on Wednesday, May 7, 2025.

Mr. Muntaka spoke in front of President John Dramani Mahama and Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang. He was joined by ministers, diplomats, and key stakeholders. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to peace and democratic stability in Ghana.

The Minister praised the NPC's contributions to conflict prevention and resolution. He highlighted its constitutional role under the National Peace Council Act of 2011 (Act 818). He emphasized the Council’s importance in promoting dialogue among political actors during elections.

“Ghana has been ranked as West Africa's most peaceful country for a decade,” he noted. “Currently, we are fourth on the African continent.” This success is largely due to the NPC's strategic interventions.

Mr. Muntaka mentioned key achievements of the NPC. These include facilitating dialogues at both constituency and national levels. He also noted that all 12 candidates signed a Presidential Peace Pact for the 2024 elections.

He pointed out progress in areas previously affected by violence. For example, Asutifi South and Asunafo North have remained calm since last elections. However, he acknowledged disturbances in Damongo and Ablekuma North.

The Ministry will collaborate with stakeholders to address these issues. Mr. Muntaka revealed that the NPC is reviewing strategies for stronger collaboration ahead of the 2024 elections.

He announced an important international recognition: Ghana has been invited to chair GAAMAC and host its headquarters from Switzerland. “This shows Ghana’s growing influence in international peacebuilding,” he said.

He called for logistical and financial support from the government for this transition. The Minister updated attendees on domestic progress as well; NPC now has offices in all 16 regions.

Currently, it is handling 368 cases nationwide, mostly related to chieftaincy disputes. He reiterated his call for a national dialogue about chieftaincy's future in Ghana.

To enhance operational capacity, vehicles have been provided to Ashanti, Bono East, and Oti regions. Plans are underway to build a permanent headquarters called "Peace House" as a legacy project under President Mahama’s tenure.

The newly inaugurated Board consists of 13 members, including three women, reflecting gender inclusion efforts within the Council. A new gender policy has also been developed to ensure broader representation in its programs.

In conclusion, Mr. Muntaka thanked all stakeholders present at the event. He reaffirmed government support for the Peace Council’s crucial role in maintaining national stability.

Members of the Reconstituted National Peace Council:
1. Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Fianu
2. Rt. Rev. Dr Hilliard K Dela Dogbe
3. Apostle Eric Kwabena Nyamekye
4. Bishop Dr Victor Osei
5. Alhaji Maulvi Mohammed Bin Salih
6. Sheik Salman Mohammed Alhassan
7. Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu
8. Numo Blafo Akotia Omaℇtu III
9. Linda Teye
10. Dr Abubakar Umar Alhassan