The Inspector General of Police (IGP) and Chairman of the National Election Security Task Force (NESTF), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, has issued a stern warning to political parties regarding the use of unauthorised individuals posing as security personnel in the upcoming elections scheduled for Saturday.
Speaking at a high-level meeting with political party representatives in Accra yesterday, Dr Dampare outlined critical measures to ensure peaceful, transparent and orderly elections, emphasising the importance of a unified approach.
Dr Dampare emphasised that only authorised state security agencies are permitted to provide security during the electoral process.
He condemned the practice of unauthorised individuals wearing uniforms resembling those of the police, military or other state agencies, describing it as a significant threat to the integrity of the elections.
“This is unacceptable. We have zero tolerance for people who present themselves as state security personnel. Anyone caught attempting to intimidate voters or disrupt the process will face the full extent of the law,” he warned.
Dr Dampare commended the political parties for their cooperation and commitment to peaceful elections.
Highlighting the impartiality and professionalism of state security agencies, he stated “This is the first time in our history that we are taking such a new approach to produce better results.
“Our goal is to ensure peaceful elections that satisfy everyone and protect the integrity of the process.”
De-escalation Strategy and Collaboration
A revised de-escalation strategy was introduced to resolve disputes swiftly and prevent violence.
To enhance coordination, the police provided political parties with a comprehensive list of contact details for security leadership at the national, regional and constituency levels, urging them to reciprocate.
“We want to avoid misinformation and ensure transparency,” Dr Dampare noted. “Frequent engagement is key to preventing confusion and fostering trust.”
Addressing Vote-Buying and Intimidation
Expressing concern over reports of vote-buying and voter intimidation, Dr Dampare assured the public that such acts would not be tolerated.
He stressed that individuals attempting to intimidate voters near polling stations, communities, or collation centers would be arrested and detained.
“We will protect the sanctity of the process to ensure that all citizens can exercise their franchise in peace,” he stated.
A Call for Patriotism
In his closing remarks, the IGP appealed to political parties and their supporters to prioritise Ghana’s democracy and peace.
“Let us finish this process well for the benefit of our country and future generations. History will remember our commitment to peace and orderliness.”
The IGP stressed the critical role of the media and civil society in promoting peaceful elections. “We must finish this process well, for the benefit of the next generation,” Dr. Dampare concluded.
Political Parties Respond
Representatives from various political parties praised the Ghana Police Service for its professionalism and proactive measures.
Evans Nimako, Director of Elections for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) affirmed the party’s confidence in the process, saying “We applaud the measures put in place and assure the NESTF of our commitment to respecting the rules of the game.”
He also called on media practitioners to combat misinformation during the election period.
Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) expressed similar sentiments, stating “We are happy with the assurances given and confident they will be implemented.”
Other political leaders, including Rev. Mordecai Thiom Biano of the All People’s Congress (APC) and representatives from the Convention People’s Party (CPP) echoed their support for the security arrangements and urged their supporters to ensure peaceful conduct during the elections.
