The Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akufo Dampare, has convened a meeting with the Council of State Members to discuss security issues in preparation toward the December 7th General Elections.
The meeting which was held at the Accra International Conference Center aimed to inform the Council of State Members about the Ghana Police Service’s (GPS) comprehensive security arrangements for the 2024 general elections, covering pre-election, election, and post-election phases. The meeting aimed to update the Council on the GPS’s preparedness to ensuring a peaceful and secure electoral process.
Dr. George Akufo Dampare assured the Council of State Members and the general public that the Ghana Police Service, as the lead security agency for the elections, is fully equipped and ready to ensure security throughout the electoral process.
As such, he emphasized that the GPS in collaboration with other security agencies under the National Election Security Task Force will work relentlessly to maintain peace and order before, during, and after the elections.
Furthermore, Dr. Dampare highlighted the extensive engagement of the Ghana Police Service with various stakeholders, including recent meetings with the Electoral Commission. These interactions, the IGP indicated, are aimed at fostering transparency and cooperation in coordinating security efforts for the elections.
“We will work together in what I call a partnership or teamwork in the interest of mother Ghana. The most important thing is that…we will do it working together with all the stake holders. We have decided to demonstrate maturity in the conduct of our activities including accepting criticism and improving upon them”.
IGP George Akufo Dampare
Nana Otuo Siriboe II, Chairman of the Council of State Members, commended the police service for their dedication and urged them to uphold neutrality and professionalism in their duties.
He also expressed satisfaction with the preparations made by the Ghana Police Service and encouraged them to remain vigilant in ensuring maximum security leading to the elections.
Moreover, Nana Otuo Siriboe II emphasized the importance of all Ghanaians, especially the youth, maintaining exemplary behavior before, during, and after the general elections. He underscored the significance of a peaceful electoral process in upholding Ghana’s democratic values and urged citizens to contribute positively to the nation’s democratic journey.
As such, both parties, GPS and the Council of State Members, reaffirmed their commitment to working together to ensure a secure and peaceful electoral environment for all citizens of Ghana.
GPS Ensuring Security At The Poll
The Ghana Police Service plays a vital role in ensuring a peaceful election in Ghana. As the country prepares for its general elections, the Police Service is tasked with maintaining law and order, preventing violence, and ensuring a secure environment for citizens to exercise their democratic rights.
The Ghana Police Service is responsible for providing security for political parties, their candidates, and supporters during campaigns and rallies. This involves deploying personnel to maintain order, preventing clashes between rival groups, and ensuring that political activities are conducted within the bounds of the law.
Moreover, the Police Service is responsible for securing polling stations, voting materials, and electoral officials on election day. This involves deploying personnel to polling stations, conducting patrols, and responding swiftly to any incidents or disturbances that may arise.
As such, the Ghana Police Service plays a crucial role in investigating and prosecuting electoral offenses, such as voter fraud, ballot stuffing, and violence. This helps to maintain the integrity of the electoral process and ensures that those who violate the law are held accountable.
Furthermore, the Police Service engages in community policing initiatives to build trust and confidence among citizens, encouraging them to report any security concerns or incidents. This helps to prevent violence and ensures that citizens feel safe and secure during the electoral process.
More so, the Ghana Police Service collaborates with other security agencies, such as the Military and Intelligence Services, to ensure a comprehensive security approach to the elections. This includes sharing intelligence, conducting joint patrols, and responding to any security threats that may arise.
The Ghana Police Service, through its various responsibilities, including providing security, investigating electoral offenses, engaging in community policing, and collaborating with other security agencies, helps to maintain law and order, prevent violence, and ensure a secure environment for citizens to exercise their democratic rights.
