The Imperative of Enhanced Security and Accreditation Protocols for the Akwatia By-Election
The upcoming Akwatia by-election has become a focal point for concerns regarding electoral violence and the integrity of Ghana’s democratic processes. Recent by-elections, particularly in Ablekuma North and Ayawaso West Wuogon, have witnessed disturbing incidents of violence, intimidation, and assaults, raising alarms about the potential for similar disruptions in Akwatia. Civil society organizations, notably Election Watch Ghana, have issued urgent calls for heightened security measures and strict adherence to accreditation protocols to ensure a peaceful, free, and fair election. These calls underscore the fragility of Ghana’s electoral system in the face of escalating political tensions and the urgent need for proactive measures to prevent further violence and safeguard the democratic process.
The recent Ablekuma North by-election re-run, marred by violent clashes and the use of pepper spray by a Member of Parliament, serves as a stark reminder of the potential for rapid escalation of violence during electoral processes. The subsequent assault on the MP and the attack on a journalist by a police officer further highlight the volatile atmosphere surrounding these elections. These incidents not only threaten the safety of individuals involved but also erode public trust in the ability of state institutions to maintain order and protect the integrity of the electoral process. The upcoming Akwatia by-election must not become another instance of electoral violence; proactive measures are necessary to prevent a repeat of such disturbing events.
The Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election in 2019 provides another chilling example of the potential for violence to derail electoral processes. The reported assault on a Member of Parliament by party-affiliated militants underscores the dangers posed by inadequate security and political interference. These incidents highlight a recurring pattern of violence and intimidation during by-elections, raising serious questions about the commitment of political actors to peaceful and democratic processes. The pattern suggests a normalization of violence, which, if left unchecked, could undermine the very foundations of Ghana’s democracy. The Akwatia by-election presents a crucial opportunity to break this cycle of violence and reaffirm the country’s commitment to peaceful electoral processes.
Election Watch Ghana, in its statement, emphasizes the need for a comprehensive security approach encompassing several key elements. Thorough searches of all individuals entering polling stations are crucial to prevent the introduction of weapons or other prohibited items. Restricting access to polling stations for public figures without proper accreditation as observers or party agents is essential to prevent undue influence and potential interference with the electoral process. These measures aim to create a secure and controlled environment within polling stations, minimizing the risk of violence and intimidation.
The deployment of adequate security personnel on election day is another critical element of ensuring a peaceful process. A visible and robust security presence can deter potential perpetrators of violence and provide reassurance to voters. Collaboration with stakeholders, particularly political parties and the media, is equally important. Open communication and cooperation between these key actors can foster a shared understanding of the importance of peaceful elections and facilitate the timely resolution of any potential disputes. The media plays a crucial role in providing accurate and unbiased reporting, which can help to de-escalate tensions and promote peaceful participation in the electoral process.
Establishing an Anti-Vigilantism Taskforce to operate before, during, and after the Akwatia by-election is a crucial step towards addressing the root causes of electoral violence. This task force should be empowered to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in acts of vigilantism and political violence. By holding perpetrators accountable, the task force can send a strong message that violence will not be tolerated in Ghana’s electoral processes. This, combined with proactive security measures and strict enforcement of accreditation protocols, can create a more conducive environment for peaceful, free, and fair elections, ultimately strengthening Ghana’s democracy.
