The National Election Security Taskforce in Ghana, commanded by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, recently convened with the Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) to discuss strategies for ensuring a secure and efficient electoral process for the upcoming elections scheduled for December. The meeting, held on November 26, 2023, allowed the EC to express its appreciation for the invaluable support provided by the taskforce, especially in maintaining security during the distribution of voter registers across all 276 constituencies. This collaboration underscores a mutual commitment to facilitating a fair and orderly election, an objective that is paramount to the democratic process.
Mrs. Jean Adukwei Mensa, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, lauded the partnership with the taskforce as highly effective. She acknowledged the critical role played by the taskforce and thanked IGP Dampare and his team for their exceptional contributions. By facilitating a secure environment for the electoral activities, the taskforce has helped bolster public confidence in the integrity of the upcoming elections. Reinforcing this sentiment, Mrs. Mensa reaffirmed the EC’s dedication to conducting transparent and fair elections, emphasizing that a considerable number of personnel—totaling 210,000—have been meticulously trained and are now prepared for deployment across the nation.
In an effort to uphold the integrity of the electoral process, the EC has also taken substantial measures, such as distributing Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs) in eight regions. To ensure the safety and security of these devices, they will be securely stored in police armories. This initiative reflects the EC’s ongoing commitment to transparency and credibility in the electoral process, establishing a framework that aims to mitigate potential security risks and reinforce public trust in the electoral system.
During the discussions, IGP Dr. Dampare reassured citizens of the taskforce’s readiness to sustain peace, security, and law and order throughout the electoral timeline. He praised the proactive strategies implemented by the Electoral Commission and recognized the positive engagement demonstrated by various stakeholders, including political parties and community members. The IGP emphasized the importance of continued peace and unity among the populace and encouraged all Ghanaians to partake in preserving the nation’s stability during the elections, reminding them of their shared responsibility in maintaining the country’s peace.
The collaborative efforts between the Electoral Commission and the National Election Security Taskforce have set a strong foundation for the management of the upcoming elections. Dr. Dampare expressed confidence that with sustained cooperation and vigilance, Ghana can navigate the electoral process without major disruptions. This level of preparedness signifies a promising outlook for the electoral climate, aimed at fostering a conducive environment for the citizens to express their democratic rights unequivocally.
In conclusion, the meeting between the National Election Security Taskforce and the Electoral Commission reflects a proactive step toward ensuring a peaceful electoral process in Ghana. With the deployment of trained personnel, the secure management of essential voting technology, and a strong commitment from both institutions, the nation is poised to uphold democratic values during the upcoming elections. The shared resolve among stakeholders can significantly mitigate potential challenges, reinforcing the collective goal of ensuring that the electoral process is free, fair, and transparent for all participants.
