The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has meticulously prepared for the upcoming by-election in the Akwatia constituency, scheduled for Tuesday, September 2, 2025. This by-election has been necessitated by the unfortunate demise of the incumbent Member of Parliament, Ernest Yaw Kumi. The EC, underlining its commitment to a smooth and transparent electoral process, has confirmed the deployment of all necessary logistical components, including Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs) and other essential materials, to the 111 polling stations scattered across the constituency. This preparedness aims to ensure a seamless voting experience for the electorate and uphold the integrity of the by-election. The Director of Electoral Services, Benjamin Bannor-Bio, has personally affirmed the readiness of the Commission, emphasizing the proactive steps taken to ensure a credible and peaceful electoral exercise.
A key element of the EC’s preparations revolves around enhanced security measures. Recognizing the importance of a secure environment for voters and electoral officials, the Commission has prioritized security arrangements for the by-election. Collaborating closely with the Ghana Police Service, headed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the EC has implemented a robust security strategy. This collaboration has resulted in the development and deployment of comprehensive security protocols designed to safeguard the integrity of the by-election and maintain peace throughout the electoral process. The commitment to security reflects the EC’s understanding of its crucial role in ensuring a free, fair, and safe electoral environment.
A notable enhancement in the logistical procedures for this by-election is the direct delivery of electoral materials to designated police stations before their final distribution to individual polling stations. This new protocol aims to strengthen the security of sensitive electoral materials, minimizing the risk of tampering or interference. By routing materials through police stations, the EC aims to create an additional layer of security, enhancing the transparency and credibility of the by-election. This innovative approach reinforces the EC’s commitment to conducting elections with the utmost integrity and transparency.
The collaboration between the EC and the Ghana Police Service has been instrumental in developing a comprehensive security plan. The IGP and his team have worked closely with the Commission to devise and implement strategies aimed at mitigating potential security risks and ensuring a peaceful and orderly election. This collaborative approach has fostered confidence in the security arrangements, allowing the electorate to exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation. The shared commitment to a secure election environment reflects the importance placed on upholding the democratic principles of free and fair elections.
The EC has expressed confidence in the effectiveness of the implemented security measures. The proactive steps taken by the Ghana Police Service, including visible deployments and strategic positioning of personnel, have created a reassuring atmosphere. This proactive approach aims to deter any potential disruptions and ensure that voters can exercise their right to choose their representative without fear of violence or intimidation. The effectiveness of these security measures will contribute significantly to the overall success of the by-election.
In summary, the Electoral Commission has undertaken extensive preparations to ensure a smooth, transparent, and secure by-election in the Akwatia constituency. From the deployment of necessary logistics to the implementation of enhanced security measures, every effort has been made to facilitate a credible and peaceful electoral process. The collaboration with the Ghana Police Service has been vital in establishing a secure environment for voters and electoral officials. The new protocol of delivering materials first to police stations underscores the EC’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the election. The comprehensive preparations reflect the EC’s dedication to upholding the democratic principles of free, fair, and transparent elections, enabling the people of Akwatia to exercise their constitutional right to choose their representative.
