Inspector General of Police (IGP) George Akuffo Dampare, head of the election security taskforce, has called on political parties to address any concerns about the electoral process through proper legal channels. He warned that any attempt to disrupt the peace will be met with legal action.
IGP Dampare made these statements while leading a meeting with the Electoral Commission (EC) in Accra on Monday, August 19, 2024.
He underscored the importance of maintaining peace, law and order throughout the election process, emphasising the inter-connectedness of all stakeholders and the critical role of peace and security in Ghana’s overall well-being.
“We urge all stakeholders, particularly political parties, to address any issues or concerns through the proper legal channels. We do not want to see anyone taking the law into their own hands. Should this occur, we will address it in accordance with the law,” IGP Dampare said.
He reassured that the security taskforce has been closely collaborating with the Electoral Commission throughout the election preparation stages, including voter registration and managing the special voter register.
IGP Dampare expressed confidence that this year’s elections will be conducted with exceptional peace, transparency, and fairness.
He encouraged all stakeholders to comply with the law and support peacekeeping efforts. He also thanked the public for their calm demeanour thus far and vowed to address any incidents of violence promptly.
IGP Dampare confirmed that security personnel will be deployed at all 38,622 polling stations, with rapid response teams prepared to handle any escalations.
He noted that individuals involved in previous election-related violence have been apprehended and will face legal consequences.
The Electoral Commission (EC) will begin exhibiting the voters’ register on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 in preparation for the upcoming elections.
Dr. Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairman of the Electoral Commission, in charge of Corporate Services, underscored the significance of the 2024 election for the country.
He assured the security taskforce of the EC’s commitment to a peaceful, credible and transparent electoral process.
Dr. Asare also confirmed that all necessary measures are in place to ensure a credible election, noting that both the limited voter registration and mop-up exercises have been completed and the special voting register has been compiled.