The National Election Security Taskforce (NESTF), chaired by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has reaffirmed that state security agencies will solely handle all security operations during the upcoming elections.
This announcement follows concerns over the involvement of private security operatives in previous elections, some of which resulted in voter intimidation and violence.
Speaking at a meeting with the Association of Private Security Organizations, Dr. Dampare emphasized the need for clarity in the security framework to ensure voter confidence and safety.
“The responsibility for election security lies solely with state security agencies. No one else.
We want every Ghanaian voter to approach polling stations with confidence, free from intimidation or confusion caused by the sight of unauthorized security personnel,” he stated.
He assured voters, political parties, and stakeholders that measures have been put in place to guarantee a peaceful and orderly election process.
He urged political actors to refrain from deploying private security and trust the NESTF’s capacity to manage all security challenges effectively.
“To the voters, we assure you that your safety is our priority.
Walk into polling stations without fear or apprehension, knowing that no one can intimidate you.
Political parties and candidates should also trust that our security arrangements are robust and impartial.
There is no need for private security deployments,” Dr. Dampare added.
In response, the president of the Association of Private Security Organizations, Ibrahim Abdul-Rahman Usunaba pledged their members’ full cooperation with the NESTF and commitment to professionalism during the election period.
He noted that private security personnel had been adequately briefed to avoid actions that could undermine public confidence or disrupt the electoral process.
“As mandated by the Police Service Act, we work under the guidance of the Police Service.
We assure the public that private security operatives will operate within the boundaries set by the NESTF and the police administration,” the association president said.
This collaboration aims to ensure a smooth and peaceful electoral process, reaffirming Ghana’s democratic values and commitment to free, fair, and credible elections.
