Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has assured the public of the Ghana Police Service’s preparedness to oversee security operations throughout the upcoming December 7 general elections.
He conveyed this commitment during a gathering at Accra’s Alisa Hotel on Thursday, July 4, where he engaged with a distinguished group organized by the Christian Council of Ghana.
Dr. Dampare underscored that the police, alongside other security agencies within the National Election Security Task Force, have implemented robust measures to institutionalize and integrate election security in recent years.
This effort has contributed significantly to ensuring peaceful and secure electoral processes.
He emphasized the proactive stance of the police in treating local elections as matters of national importance, ensuring adequate security measures are in place.
He reassured Ghanaians of a peaceful process, stating, “We have been ready for years because we have institutionalised and mainstreamed election security for the first time in the history of this country.
Elections are not seen as events but as a process in a cycle where the end of one is the beginning of another.”
The IGP also noted the success of recent elections, including internal party elections, saying, “All the elections for the past almost three years, including internal elections of the parties, the selection of parliamentary candidates, and presidential candidates, have been historically secure.
This is an indication of our readiness, working in concert with security forces and more importantly, with patriotic Ghanaians who want to see the country remain at peace.”
He additionally highlighted the significance of professionalism and adopting a de-escalation approach in managing conflicts, emphasizing that the police’s actions should be justified and focused on preserving peace and security for the welfare of forthcoming generations.
“For the 2024 elections, we are ensuring a clear de-escalation mindset amid confusion and agitations. We need to be professional and ensure that we settle issues among the conflicting parties in a way that unites them,” he added.