The Ghana Police Service has assured the public that comprehensive security measures are in place for the final political rallies of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), scheduled for today, Thursday, December 5, 2024, in Accra.
The NPP rally will take place at the UG Sports Directorate park, opposite the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, while the NDC rally is set for Zurak Park in Madina.
The Police noted that while they had advised both parties to consider relocating their venues due to their close proximity along the Accra-Madina corridor—a situation that could heighten the risk of confrontations between supporters—both parties declined, citing political disadvantages.
“In order to avoid tension during this last minute of the whole pre-election process, the Police have decided to put in extra effort and resources to accommodate their stance. We have accordingly worked with them to come out with the following security arrangements to ensure the peaceful conduct of the rallies:
“Designated routes have been approved for party supporters to access their respective rally venues, and all supporters are required to strictly adhere to these specified paths”.
Ghana Police Service
Accordingly, the Police have issued detailed directions for rally attendees to ensure smooth traffic flow and reduce congestion.
The Police advised NPP supporters traveling from the Adenta direction to turn left at Ritz Junction, proceed towards American House, and continue along this route, connecting through Opkonglo to reach the UG Sports Directorate park.
Similarly, those coming from the Dome direction should turn right at Haatso Junction and follow the route towards GIMPA to access the University of Ghana.
For NDC supporters, the police indicated that those traveling from Tetteh Quarshie are encouraged to turn right at Shiashie, follow Lagos Avenue, connect to Trinity Avenue leading to UPSA, and then turn left onto the UPSA road.
According to the Police directive, from there, they should join the main Madina-Accra highway and turn right to reach their rally grounds.
Supporters coming from Dome are advised to turn left at the KFC Junction and head towards the Wisconsin area. “In addition, supporters coming from the Adenta direction can use any suitable route to access the rally location”.
Police Announce Road Closures, Traffic Measures
Furthermore, the Ghana Police Service announced that the North Legon and Memuna roads will be closed to the general public to provide space for the NDC supporters to hold their rally.
The Police clarified that, apart from the North Legon and Memuna roads, all other roads will remain open to regular traffic.
However, the Police noted that significant traffic congestion is anticipated due to the rallies, and commuters are encouraged to use alternative routes to avoid delays.
Additionally, the Police stated that groups of party supporters would not be permitted to move beyond the designated routes.
“Groups of supporters on motorbikes will not be allowed within the vicinity of the rally venues to prevent congestion and potential security breaches. Police officers will be stationed strategically along all the routes to assist party supporters to safely get to their respective rally grounds.
“In the event of any problem or security concern, the public is advised to immediately contact the Police through the Election Emergency Command Centre on the toll-free number 0800311311 for the necessary intervention”.
Ghana Police Service
The Police have urged both parties and their supporters to uphold the same level of discipline and decorum they have demonstrated throughout their campaigns as they participate in tomorrow’s rallies.
They emphasized that such comportment is crucial for ensuring a peaceful and orderly event, fostering a safe environment for all participants and the general public.
To further reassure the public, the Police stated their commitment to deploying all necessary measures to maintain security, enforce the law, and ensure order during the rallies.
They expressed their readiness to respond promptly to any incidents that might arise, emphasizing that their primary goal is to protect lives and property while allowing the events to proceed smoothly.
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