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In a bid to ensure the smooth conduct of the upcoming 2024 general elections, the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana and the National Elections Security Taskforce convened a high-level meeting today to deliberate on strategies to ensure peace and security before, during, and after the elections.
The meeting, held in Accra, brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Armed Forces, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), and other allied security agencies. Officials from the EC, led by its Chairperson, Jean Mensa, outlined the Commission’s preparations and security concerns regarding the election process.
Addressing the gathering, Jean Mensa emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach between the EC and the security task force to ensure free, fair, and credible elections. “The integrity of our elections is non-negotiable, and security remains a critical component of this process. We are committed to working with the National Elections Security Taskforce to mitigate potential threats and guarantee the safety of all stakeholders,” she stated.
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, who represented the security task force, reiterated the commitment of the security agencies to maintaining law and order. He assured Ghanaians that robust measures would be implemented to address issues such as voter intimidation, ballot box theft, and post-election violence. “We have learned valuable lessons from previous elections and are refining our strategies to ensure a peaceful and transparent electoral process,” Dr. Dampare noted.
Discussions at the meeting also centered on security arrangements for polling stations, collation centers, and other critical areas. The task force presented an operational plan that includes the deployment of security personnel nationwide, real-time intelligence gathering, and rapid response teams to address emergencies.
Another major focus was the need for public education on peaceful elections. The EC and the security agencies pledged to intensify public awareness campaigns to discourage the spread of fake news and other activities that could incite violence or disrupt the electoral process.
In a joint statement issued at the end of the meeting, the EC and the task force reaffirmed their commitment to working together to ensure a peaceful electoral environment. The statement also urged political parties, candidates, and their supporters to uphold the principles of tolerance and non-violence.
The 2024 general elections are expected to be highly competitive, with political parties already gearing up for what promises to be a closely contested poll. As the nation prepares to head to the polls, the collaboration between the EC and the National Elections Security Taskforce will play a pivotal role in maintaining Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa.
Stakeholders across the political divide have lauded the initiative, calling on all Ghanaians to support efforts to safeguard the sanctity of the electoral process.
By Simon Opoku Afriyie
