Inspector General of Police (IGP) George Akuffo Dampare has called on political parties to remain calm and focused, emphasizing that Ghana is preparing for peaceful elections, not war.
Speaking during a Police and Political Parties’ engagement in Accra on November 20, he reassured stakeholders of the police’s commitment to ensuring peace and security throughout the electoral process.
“Let us all calm down. This is an election, and after the election, there is life. War will only leave exhaustion and erasure,” Dampare stated, urging political parties to prioritize the nation’s stability over partisan interests.
Commitment to Security and Law Enforcement
The IGP praised political parties for entrusting the police with security during their internal elections.
He affirmed the service’s readiness to deal decisively with any individuals or groups attempting to disrupt the voting process.
“We’ll be waiting for them. If you want to vote, submit yourself to the police.
We will deal with you according to the law,” Dampare declared, highlighting the police’s zero-tolerance policy for election-related misconduct.
Dampare also lauded presidential candidates and political leaders for maintaining peace during their campaigns, noting that incidents of unrest have been minimal.
He reiterated the police’s dedication to upholding law and order, emphasizing that their approach would range from engagement to decisive law enforcement when necessary.
“Where we need to engage, we will engage. Where we need to de-escalate, we will de-escalate.
But when it comes to enforcing the law, we will act mercilessly within the framework of the rule of law,” he assured.
Political Stakeholders Address Concerns
The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Kodua Frimpong, reaffirmed his party’s commitment to peaceful elections while voicing concerns about potential violence and misinformation.
“We will follow due process, respect the rule of law, and avoid any actions that could undermine our democracy,” he said, referencing the violence witnessed during the Assin North by-election.
Kodua called for stricter security measures, particularly regarding the use of motorbikes, which have been linked to election-day chaos in the past.
He also urged the media to provide accurate and unbiased information, warning that misinformation could lead to unrest.
“False information can cause chaos, and by the time corrections are made, the damage may already be done,” he cautioned.
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Director of Elections for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), commended the police and the Election Security Task Force for their measures to ensure a peaceful and transparent process.
He emphasized the importance of barring firearms at polling stations and keeping the military as a last resort, a responsibility solely vested in the IGP as the Commander-in-Chief of the National Election Security Task Force.
Dr. Boamah also proposed enhancements to the electoral process, such as sharing results electronically and copying all presidential candidates to ensure transparency.
He expressed confidence in the NDC’s ability to collaborate effectively with security agencies, adding, “We are ready to cooperate and ensure this election reflects the will of the people.”
Call for Unity and Vigilance
The IGP concluded by urging all stakeholders to remain vigilant and united in safeguarding Ghana’s democratic legacy.
He underscored the importance of peaceful elections, stating, “Let’s show the world that black lives matter and that Ghana is capable of managing its affairs responsibly.”
The meeting emphasized collaboration, transparency, and adherence to the rule of law, with stakeholders pledging to work towards free, fair, and peaceful elections on December 7.
