Private security professionals have received a strong warning from the National Elections Security Taskforce, which is headed by Inspector General of Police (IGP) George Akuffo Dampare, not to obstruct state security forces’ efforts prior to, during, or following Saturday’s elections.
Vigilante groups have been involved in violent incidents during Ghana’s recent elections; some of these groups serve as political figures’ personal security.
IGP Dampare emphasized their dedication to peaceful and orderly elections while reassuring the public that state security agencies would retain complete control over election security during a meeting with the Association of Private Security Organizations.
“The only entity responsible for providing security is the state security and nobody [else]. We don’t want a situation where the ordinary Ghanaian voter is confused and probably intimidated by any citing of or any form of uniform that makes them very apprehensive in showing up and casting their votes.
“To Ghanaians, we want to assure you that we have your back, and we will do anything that it takes for you not to be confused”.
“Especially the voters so that you can walk into the polling stations to cast your vote peacefully with a lot of confidence, knowing that nobody can intimidate you. We are with you and with all the political Parties and their candidates and assure them that the measures we are putting in place are for the benefit of all, to ensure that they also have confidence in the system and do not even make any attempt on their own to try to provide security for themselves for we are fully and totally in charge”.
