The National Election Security Taskforce (NESTF), under the leadership of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, held a strategic meeting with the Commonwealth Observer Group Mission to Ghana at the NESTF Press Centre, located at the National Police Headquarters today.
This meeting reaffirmed Ghana’s dedication to ensuring peace and security throughout the electoral process.
Ghana’s Commitment to Democratic Stability
Addressing the Commonwealth delegation, Dr. Dampare emphasized the country’s readiness to host a peaceful and credible election.
“Our goal is to showcase a model electoral process that can inspire others across Africa and the world,” he stated.
He expressed appreciation for the observer mission’s role in strengthening Ghana’s reputation as a democratic leader.
The Commonwealth delegation was led by H.E. Dr. Mokgweetsi E. K. Masisi, former President of Botswana, who chairs the observer group.
Dr. Masisi commended Ghana for its robust democratic traditions, asserting, “The Commonwealth is committed to supporting credible democratic processes.
Through observation, we uphold the democratic values that bind our member states.”
He further assured that the mission would contribute to transparency and accountability during the elections.
Election Security Framework
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Frederick Adjei, Director General of the Police Intelligence Directorate, outlined NESTF’s comprehensive security measures.
He introduced the Pre-Election, Election, and Post-Election Security Plan (PEP), emphasizing its holistic approach to maintaining law and order at all stages of the electoral cycle.
Firstly, on the master deployment plan, he said a Real-time management of over 5,000 security personnel are across polling stations.
Secondly, on rapid response teams, a constituency-based units are ready to address emergencies swiftly.
Lastly, on collation centre security, he stated that a tightened measures to safeguard the tallying of votes has been put in place.
DCOP Adjei reassured stakeholders of NESTF’s readiness, highlighting extensive training for officers in de-escalation techniques and the use of a detailed election manual to guide operations.
Threat Assessments and Intelligence Gathering
Commissioner of Police (COP) Paul Manly Awini, Director General of Administration for the Ghana Police Service, elaborated on the task force’s structured threat assessments.
He revealed that Ghana’s security remains stable, classified at Level 2 on the UN’s six-level threat scale, signifying a calm and predictable environment.
“Our officers continually assess potential threats, including terrorism, civil unrest, and misinformation,” he said.
COP Awini also highlighted real-time engagement mechanisms to address potential crises and prevent escalation.
Combating Misinformation
Recognizing the risks posed by disinformation, NESTF has established a media monitoring unit chaired by ACP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director of Public Affairs for the Police Service.
This unit will actively engage with the public to counter misinformation and provide timely clarifications during the electoral process.
Dr. Dampare affirmed NESTF’s commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.
“We will be firm, fair, and professional, ensuring that Ghana’s elections remain a benchmark of democracy,” he stated.
The Commonwealth Observer Group expressed confidence in the task force’s strategies and preparedness.
Dr. Masisi lauded the collaborative efforts of Ghana’s security agencies and urged stakeholders to support the task force’s objectives.
The meeting concluded with assurances from both sides that Ghana’s 2024 elections would uphold its standing as a bastion of democracy on the continent.