The African Electoral Institute (AEI) has expressed deep concern over the recent arrest and detention of Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Parliamentary Candidate for Awutu Senya East. In a statement issued on Monday, June 10, 2024, the AEI highlighted the troubling nature of the police actions and called for greater professionalism and transparency in their operations.

The AEI described the development as “very worrying,” emphasizing the need for law enforcement agencies to operate with integrity and fairness. The institute underscored the importance of allowing state institutions to function independently, free from any form of interference, to maintain public safety and prevent the intimidation of political candidates and their supporters.

While the AEI acknowledged the necessity for law enforcement to operate without undue influence, it stressed that police actions should be proportional to the alleged offenses. “The action(s) of the Police should be measurable to the alleged offense to prevent or ensure that no other meanings are read into their operations,” the statement continued.

The Institute criticized the police for not adequately informing the public about the reasons for Ms. Okunor’s arrest, which has led to widespread speculation and uncertainty. This lack of communication has exacerbated tensions in the political landscape, raising concerns about the potential for further unrest as the election period approaches.

The AEI’s call for professionalism and transparency in law enforcement is a timely reminder of the crucial role that independent and fair policing plays in maintaining democratic processes. As Ghana approaches its election period, the actions of the police and other state institutions will be under intense scrutiny.

The AEI has positioned itself as a watchdog, committed to ensuring that the electoral process remains free, fair, and transparent. Their statement is a clear message to law enforcement and political actors alike: the integrity of Ghana’s democracy depends on the impartial and just application of the law.

Call for Professionalism and Transparency

In light of the rising political tensions as elections approach, the AEI urged the police to adopt more strategic, tactical, and effective methods in their duties.

“The current political temperature is heating up, and this should let the Police adopt more strategic, tactical, and effective ways of going about their duties without suspicion from any quarters to suggest that they are doing the bidding of anyone to the disadvantage of another.”
The African Electoral Institute (AEI)

The AEI’s statement comes at a critical time when the political atmosphere in Ghana is becoming increasingly charged. The arrest of a prominent parliamentary candidate like Ms. Okunor has the potential to inflame partisan divisions and erode public trust in the electoral process.

The Institute also called on Ghanaians to avoid politicizing police activities, which can complicate their work and diminish their motivation. “It is very important for the Police to do their work with utmost professionalism. The Police must be seen to be fair but firm in the discharge of their duties to underscore their motto, which is: ‘Service with Integrity,” the statement added.

The arrest of Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor has drawn sharp reactions from various political quarters. Members of the NDC have accused the police of acting on behalf of political interests aiming to destabilize their campaign in Awutu Senya East, a key battleground constituency. They argue that the arrest is part of a broader strategy to intimidate and weaken opposition candidates ahead of the elections.

Conversely, supporters of the ruling party have defended the police actions, arguing that law enforcement must be allowed to do their job without interference and that no one is above the law, regardless of their political affiliation.

Amid these polarized views, the general public is seeking clarity and transparency. Many citizens have taken to social media to express their frustration over the lack of detailed information regarding the charges against Ms. Okunor. There is a growing demand for the police to provide a clear and concise explanation to avoid further speculation and to ensure that justice is both done and seen to be done.

As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the police will respond to these concerns and whether they will take steps to reassure the public of their impartiality and commitment to justice. The AEI’s intervention highlights the need for continued vigilance and advocacy to uphold the principles of democracy and the rule of law in Ghana.