The Inspector General of Police is under immense pressure to ensure a violence-free election during the December polls. Concerns have been raised regarding alleged appointments with political undertones, highlighting the urgent need for clarity from the security institution regarding its role in maintaining national security and ensuring peaceful elections.
Richard Kumadoe, a Security Expert and Consultant, made these remarks during an interview on the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor 92.3 FM, hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra. He emphasized the importance of addressing past cases of election-related violence and murders that have gone unresolved, stressing the need for accountability within the security apparatus.
Looking ahead, Kumadoe called on the security institution to prioritize election management and the protection of the electoral process. As part of their commitment to election security, he and his team are organizing civilian election management training sessions to safeguard the integrity of the upcoming December polls.
Kumadoe also urged political parties to actively engage in discussions on security management issues at the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) to formulate a comprehensive roadmap for the election process, including security arrangements on election day.
Expressing concerns about the use of drones for election monitoring, Kumadoe highlighted potential legal and security issues and advised political parties intending to utilize drones to obtain proper legal and security clearance from the election national task force.
In a separate development, Jean Mensa, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), urged the Ghana Police Service to enforce electoral laws rigorously, emphasizing that all offenders, including EC staff, should face penalties. Speaking at a press briefing alongside the police, Mensa stressed the importance of impartially addressing electoral violations and maintaining public order throughout the electoral process.
Mensa also called on the police to safeguard EC assets and ensure peace, stability, and law and order at polling stations and collation centers nationwide. She reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to an open and inclusive electoral process, pledging transparency and accessibility in all their operations.
Responding to these concerns, Inspector General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare assured the public of the Police Service’s readiness to adapt its election security strategies. Dr. Dampare expressed opposition to the formation of security task forces shortly before elections and emphasized the importance of collaboration with the EC for a peaceful and successful election in 2024.
AYM Kukah: Email: kukahalexander7@gmail.com
