The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, has issued a stern warning to individuals who may seek to disrupt the peace before, during, or after Ghana’s upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections on 7 December. In his capacity as the Chairman of the National Election Security Taskforce (NESTF), Dr Dampare has reaffirmed his commitment to upholding peace and ensuring a transparent electoral process.
During a meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) at the Police Headquarters on Tuesday, 19 November 2024, the IGP expressed confidence in the comprehensive security measures that have been put in place. He highlighted the peaceful conduct of previous elections in the country, including recent assembly elections and internal political party elections. Dr Dampare assured that any instances of violence would be swiftly dealt with according to the law, with perpetrators being apprehended and prosecuted.
The IGP revealed that the security plan for the 2024 General Elections has been meticulously crafted over two years. This blueprint for election security, the first of its kind in Ghana’s history, addresses immediate needs while setting a standard for the next three decades. Dr Dampare emphasized that the election taskforce would take decisive action to maintain order on Election Day.
“We will de-escalate where necessary. But when we must enforce the law within the bounds of the rule of law, we will stop at nothing. We will engage when needed, de-escalate when appropriate, but enforce the law to the letter when required,” stated Dr Dampare.
In addition, the IGP disclosed that the police are collaborating closely with the Electoral Commission (EC) to enhance security at collation centres. Standardized collation centres are being established to prioritize security and address past challenges of disorderly centers with chaotic environments. Plans are being finalized to ensure that such disorganization becomes a thing of the past.
Dr Dampare urged stakeholders and the media to communicate assurances to the public, fostering trust in the system’s capability to deliver a peaceful and credible election. This, he stressed, is crucial for the preservation of Ghana’s democracy. The commitment to a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process is paramount, and all efforts are being made to ensure a successful outcome on 7 December.
