KEY POINTS
- IGP Dampare vows decisive action against offenders.
- Police implement measures to ensure peaceful elections.
- Citizens urged to reject election-related violence.
Inspector General of Police George Akuffo Dampare has issued a stern warning against electoral misconduct as Ghana prepares for its December elections.
Speaking during the inauguration of a newly constructed police station in Akyem-Manso, Eastern Region, Dampare cautioned individuals against allowing themselves to be used as tools to disrupt the electoral process, emphasizing that the police will take decisive action against offenders.
Commitment to law and order
According to myJoyonline, Dampare highlighted the police force’s proactive measures to ensure a peaceful election, including systems to detect and address early warning signs of electoral violence. He assured the public of the police’s readiness to maintain law and order, urging citizens to avoid engaging in any activities that could jeopardize the country’s democratic process.
“Don’t be lured into creating confusion during the polls because my people will not spare you,” Dampare declared. He further cautioned, “The people who will lure you to create confusion will switch off their phones when you are arrested; they will simply abandon you.”
Encouraging responsible participation
The IGP stressed the importance of exercising constitutional rights responsibly and urged voters to respect the democratic process without infringing on the rights of others. Dampare also underscored the police service’s neutrality, assuring all political parties and stakeholders that the security apparatus is committed to fairness.
“We are here to ensure that everyone, regardless of political affiliation, feels safe and secure during this critical time,” he added.
Building confidence in security operations
The newly commissioned police station in Akyem-Manso is part of broader efforts to bolster law enforcement infrastructure and ensure police presence in critical areas during the election period. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing public safety and mitigating potential threats to peace.
Dampare called on community leaders and stakeholders to collaborate with the police by reporting suspicious activities that could compromise the elections. He emphasized that the police force’s priority is to protect lives and property while fostering a conducive environment for a free and fair electoral process.
A warning against impunity
In his closing remarks, the IGP reaffirmed that no one is above the law and that the police will act decisively against any individual or group attempting to disrupt the elections. “Let this serve as a warning: the law will take its course, and offenders will face the consequences of their actions,” he said.
As the December elections draw closer, the police chief’s strong stance reinforces Ghana’s dedication to safeguarding its democracy and maintaining peace throughout the electoral process.
