The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has raised serious concerns about potential security breaches in the upcoming Akwatia by-election, scheduled for Tuesday, September 2, 2025. Salam Mustapha, the NPP’s National Youth Organiser, revealed that the party has received intelligence suggesting a plot by unidentified groups to infiltrate the election process by impersonating police officers. These groups, allegedly originating from the Greater Accra and Ashanti regions, are reportedly planning to don police uniforms and engage in illicit activities during the voting process. This alarming revelation raises significant concerns about the potential for electoral malpractice and violence, further intensifying the already tense atmosphere surrounding the by-election.
Mustapha’s warning emphasizes the need for heightened security measures beyond the mere presence of uniformed personnel. He urged the Ghana Police Service to be vigilant and proactive in preventing any potential disruptions. The NPP’s intelligence suggests a sophisticated plan to undermine the electoral process, highlighting the need for the police to be adequately prepared and equipped to handle such a scenario. The party’s concerns underscore the importance of maintaining the integrity and transparency of the by-election, which is being held following the death of former Member of Parliament, Ernest Kumi.
The NPP’s call for enhanced security measures includes specific requests for police officers deployed to the by-election to be clearly identifiable. Mustapha stated that the party expects all officers to wear visible name tags and refrain from wearing masks. He warned that any masked officers would be considered suspicious and unprofessional, potentially indicating an attempt to conceal their identity and engage in illicit activities. This demand for accountability and transparency aims to prevent unauthorized individuals from infiltrating the security apparatus and disrupting the electoral process.
The by-election in Akwatia is a crucial political contest between the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the opposition NPP. The seat became vacant following the demise of Ernest Kumi, and both parties are vying for control. The already charged political climate, coupled with the allegations of planned infiltration, necessitates a robust security response to ensure that the election is conducted peacefully and credibly. The police have a crucial role to play in safeguarding the electoral process and preventing any potential violence or manipulation.
The NPP’s concerns extend beyond the immediate threat of impersonation. They highlight the broader issue of electoral security and the potential for external forces to manipulate the outcome of elections. The alleged plan to infiltrate the polls using fake police officers represents a serious attempt to undermine democratic processes and cast doubt on the legitimacy of the results. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that involves not only increased security measures but also a thorough investigation into the source and scope of the alleged plot.
The by-election in Akwatia serves as a critical test of Ghana’s electoral system and its ability to withstand attempts at manipulation. The allegations raised by the NPP underscore the need for continuous vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard the integrity of the democratic process. The police must take the NPP’s warning seriously and implement robust security measures to prevent any potential disruptions. A credible and peaceful election is essential for maintaining public trust in the democratic system and ensuring a smooth transition of power. The outcome of the by-election will have significant implications for the political landscape in Akwatia and could potentially influence the broader political dynamics in Ghana.
