The National Election Security Task Force (NESTF), led by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has announced comprehensive security and traffic management plans to prevent potential clashes between the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and National Democratic Congress (NDC), as both parties hold their final rallies in close proximity on December 5, 2024.
The NPP is set to hold its rally at the University of Ghana Stadium, while the NDC will hold its event at Zurak Park at Madina, locations separated by a short distance.
To ensure safety, NESTF held extensive engagements with party representatives and conducted on-site inspections to assess security measures and traffic flow.
Road Diversions and Blockades
Announcing the strategies, ACP Grace Akrofi, Director-General, Public Affairs Directorate (PAD) of the Police Service, briefing the media after engagement with the political parties, issued strict traffic diversion routes to separate the movement of supporters.
NPP Supporters
Those from the Adenta direction will use the Ritz Junction, Aviation Road and UPSA route to access the University of Ghana Stadium.
Supporters coming from the Dome area will use the Haatso Junction and Bawaleshie routes to reach the stadium.
NDC Supporters
Those from Tetteh Quarshie will use the Shiashie route to bypass Legon and head towards the main Madina area.
Supporters coming from Dome will take the KFC Junction to the Wisconsin Road, avoiding Legon altogether.
Additionally, a roadblock will be set up near Zurak Park to manage traffic congestion, ensuring a smooth flow for attendees.
Police Deployment and Support
NESTF assured the public of significant police presence at both rally locations and along designated routes. Officers will guide supporters, enforce the diversions, and ensure law and order. Groups traveling on motorbikes have also been advised to adhere strictly to the assigned routes.
ACP Akrofi stressed that the diversions aim to minimise disruptions while allowing both parties to rally peacefully.
She said representatives from both the NPP and NDC have expressed their commitment to ensuring their supporters comply with the measures.
In the event of any issues, the public is urged to contact the police via the toll-free emergency line, 0800311311.
She reiterated NESTF’s dedication to maintaining peace and security throughout the election period.
“We remain committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure Ghana remains peaceful before, during and after the December 7 elections,” he said.
Both parties are expected to draw large crowds at their rallies, making the implementation of these measures critical to ensuring the safety of participants and the general public.
