The upcoming by-election in Akwatia, Ghana, scheduled for September 2, 2025, has become a focal point of political tension and security concerns, prompting the Ghana Police Service to deploy a substantial force of 5,500 officers to the constituency. This significant deployment underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process, particularly in light of the heightened political climate following the death of the incumbent MP and the ensuing contest between the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). The scale of the operation signals a proactive approach to preventing violence and maintaining order, aiming to reassure the public and deter any potential disruptions.
The death of Ernest Kumi, the NPP MP for Akwatia, created a power vacuum that has intensified the political rivalry between the NDC and NPP. This by-election is viewed as a crucial test for both parties, with each vying to secure the vacant seat. The contest has been marked by escalating tensions, inflammatory rhetoric, and even clashes between supporters, creating an atmosphere of anxiety among residents. The increased police presence aims to mitigate these tensions and ensure the safety of voters and the integrity of the electoral process. The police are also engaging with communities to build trust and encourage voter participation, emphasizing that the deployment is intended to protect, not intimidate, the electorate.
The decision of the NDC to contest the seat, a move criticized by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has further inflamed the political landscape. This criticism has contributed to the existing tension within the constituency, highlighting the sensitive nature of the by-election and the potential for further escalation. The police deployment is therefore designed to address these concerns and establish a secure environment for all stakeholders involved in the election. The focus is on maintaining order, preventing violence, and ensuring that the electoral process unfolds smoothly and transparently.
The Ghana Police Service has implemented several security measures to safeguard the by-election. These measures include a heavy police presence throughout the constituency, particularly around polling stations and the collation center. Access to the collation center, where votes are counted, has been strictly restricted to accredited officials to prevent interference and maintain the integrity of the vote counting process. This targeted deployment is intended to preemptively address potential flashpoints and maintain order throughout the election period.
The significant deployment of police personnel evokes memories of the 2024 general elections, where despite heavy security, isolated incidents of violence occurred. By-elections in Ghana have historically been prone to disruptions and challenges, making the Akwatia by-election a critical test for the effectiveness of strategic policing in ensuring a peaceful and credible outcome. The police are determined to learn from past experiences and ensure that the Akwatia by-election is conducted in a free, fair, and secure manner.
The Ghana Police Service, under the leadership of COP Vans Baba Gariba, Director of Operations, is committed to ensuring a peaceful and credible by-election in Akwatia. The substantial police presence, coupled with community engagement and strict security measures at the collation center, underscores the authorities’ resolve to prevent electoral violence and protect the integrity of the electoral process. The message is clear: electoral violence will not be tolerated. The success of the Akwatia by-election will serve as an important indicator of the effectiveness of strategic policing in managing electoral processes in Ghana and ensuring the safety and security of all participants.
