The upcoming by-elections in the Akwantia constituency have been overshadowed by concerns over the excessive deployment of police personnel, a situation that Election Watch Ghana warns could intimidate voters and suppress turnout. The organization emphasizes that while security is crucial for peaceful elections, the heavy-handed approach adopted by authorities risks undermining the democratic process by creating an atmosphere of fear and discouraging participation. Instead of focusing on an overwhelming police presence, Election Watch Ghana argues that efforts should be directed towards ensuring strict adherence to electoral rules and regulations, fostering a fair and transparent electoral environment that encourages active participation from all eligible voters. This shift in focus, they believe, is vital to ensuring a credible and legitimate electoral outcome.
A critical concern highlighted by Election Watch Ghana is the potential for violence, which they attribute primarily to the actions of political elites rather than grassroots party loyalists. The organization urges politicians to de-escalate the inflammatory rhetoric that has characterized the pre-election period, arguing that such rhetoric contributes significantly to the potential for unrest. This call for responsible political discourse underscores the need for leaders to prioritize the peaceful conduct of elections and the overall stability of the democratic process. They stress the responsibility of political leaders to create a conducive environment for free and fair elections, devoid of intimidation and violence.
To further mitigate the risks of violence and ensure the integrity of the electoral process, Election Watch Ghana recommends stringent adherence to accreditation procedures at polling stations. This involves allowing only authorized individuals, regardless of their political affiliation or social standing, within the designated perimeter. Moreover, the organization advocates for thorough security screenings of electoral officials, party representatives, and voters before they enter polling premises. This meticulous approach aims to prevent unauthorized individuals, particularly partisan vigilante groups, from disrupting the voting process and intimidating voters. By emphasizing these security measures, Election Watch Ghana underscores the need for a secure and transparent electoral process.
The watchdog group also criticizes the precedent set by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Tamale Central by-elections, where they opted not to field a candidate. Election Watch Ghana argues that this strategic decision undermines the democratic framework by limiting voter choice and potentially discouraging participation. This action, they contend, weakens the democratic process and sets a dangerous precedent for future elections. The organization’s critique highlights the importance of robust competition between political parties as a fundamental pillar of a healthy democracy. By choosing not to participate, the NPP, according to Election Watch Ghana, deprives voters of a genuine choice and weakens the overall democratic landscape.
The organization firmly believes that elections should be viewed as a contest of ideas and policy platforms, not as a battleground characterized by intimidation and fear. They advocate for a shift in the prevailing electoral narrative, moving away from heavy-handed security measures towards a focus on upholding democratic principles. This envisioned transformation hinges on ensuring that the electoral process is transparent, fair, and accessible to all eligible voters, free from coercion or intimidation. They emphasize the crucial role that a peaceful and participatory electoral environment plays in strengthening democratic institutions and fostering public trust in the electoral process.
The Akwantia by-elections, according to Election Watch Ghana, present a crucial opportunity to redefine the trajectory of Ghana’s electoral history. The organization emphasizes the need to prioritize adherence to democratic principles, moving away from the reliance on excessive police presence to ensure peaceful elections. They assert that a free, fair, and transparent electoral process is not only essential for the people of Akwantia but also for upholding the integrity of Ghana’s democracy as a whole. This call for a paradigm shift in the conduct of elections underscores the organization’s commitment to fostering a stronger and more vibrant democracy in Ghana.
