The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called on the Ghana Police Service to take swift and decisive action against individuals involved in recent electoral violence at Ablekuma North, ahead of the upcoming Akwatia by-election scheduled for September 2.
The call was made during a crucial meeting between the police and political parties on election preparedness. Speaking to the media after the engagement, NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye emphasized that public confidence in security arrangements for the Akwatia poll depends heavily on how authorities handle the Ablekuma North incident.
“We made it clear that the thugs associated with the NDC, who caused chaos—videos and images of them are everywhere—must be arrested and prosecuted. So far, we’ve only heard of two arrests with no further updates. Were they taken to court? Are they on remand? We have no idea,” he said.
Nana Boakye added that Inspector General of Police (IGP) George Akuffo Dampare assured them of ongoing investigations and possible arrests within the day. He stressed that meaningful assurances must be backed by visible action.
“If we are to trust these assurances, then the Ablekuma North issue must be dealt with decisively. The Ghana Police Service must show they are serious by taking firm action,” he stated.
NDC Also Calls for Tighter Security Measures
Meanwhile, Rashid Tanko-Computer, Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), said his party urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to bolster security at polling stations.
He argued that unauthorized individuals, including former government officials, should not be allowed within the inner perimeter during voting, referencing allegations that some former officials disrupted the process during the Ablekuma North elections.
“We reiterated our commitment to peace, but we’re also concerned about the actions of our opponents who often show up armed. Let’s not forget what sparked the chaos in Ablekuma North,” he said.
Tanko-Computer specifically accused former MP Hawa Koomson of carrying pepper spray during the incident, urging the EC to ensure that only accredited individuals are allowed near polling stations.
“No matter your former title, if you don’t have accreditation, you have no business being at a polling station,” he added.
As the Akwatia by-election draws closer, political parties and the public alike await visible action from the police to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
