Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has reaffirmed the Ghana Police Service’s commitment to ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for the upcoming Akwatia by-election in the Eastern Region.
His assurance followed a visit by the Police Management Board (POMAB) to the High-Risk Operation Training Centre at Akyerematen on Wednesday, August 20, 2025. The visit was aimed at assessing the preparedness of officers deployed for election security.
According to the IGP, the Police Service is fully committed to protecting all electoral stakeholders — including voters, electoral officials, political parties, and the media — before, during, and after the polls.
“We’ve deployed officers who are trained in handling firearms and security protocols. As we head into the by-election, we’re sharpening our readiness. Today, our officers will move to Akwatia to assess the situation on the ground and neutralize any threats,” Yohuno stated.
He added that social media threats had informed security planning, and the presence of officers in Akwatia should reassure voters that safety is a top priority.
Ahead of the September 2 vote, the Police Service also held a security briefing with political parties on Tuesday, August 19, to review election preparedness.
During the meeting, NPP National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, criticized the police over delays in taking action against individuals allegedly involved in recent electoral violence in Ablekuma North.
He said: “There’s video evidence of known individuals — some linked to the NDC — involved in violence. Yet, there’s no transparency on arrests or prosecution. If the police want our trust, they must act swiftly and decisively.”
In response, the IGP reportedly assured party representatives that arrests were imminent and that efforts were underway to address the Ablekuma North incidents.
Meanwhile, the opposition NDC urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to tighten security protocols to prevent unauthorized access to polling stations.
Rashid Tanko-Computer, the NDC’s Deputy Director of Elections and IT, stressed the need to bar unaccredited individuals — including former state officials — from restricted areas during voting.
“We’re committed to peace, but we are wary of provocations from our opponents. During the Ablekuma North chaos, a former MP allegedly had pepper spray in her bag. No one, regardless of past titles, should be allowed at polling stations without accreditation,” he said.
