Accept victory or defeat with grace –IGP tells political parties

As Ghana approaches the December 7 general elections, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and Chairman of the National Election Security Taskforce (NESTF), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has urged political parties to demonstrate resilience and patriotism by accepting both victory and defeat with grace.

Speaking during a high-level meeting with political party leaders at the Police Headquarters in Accra on Thursday, November 21, 2024 Dr. Dampare stressed the importance of prioritising Ghana’s democratic stability over partisan interests.

“Out of the 12 presidential candidates and 801 parliamentary aspirants contesting, only one presidential candidate and 276 parliamentary candidates will emerge victorious. Ghana must be the ultimate winner,” he emphasised.

He encouraged political actors to manage their expectations and prepare for all outcomes, reminding them, “Elections are not a do-or-die affair. Life continues after elections and Ghana is bigger than any individual or party. Let us prove to the world that we can get it right.”

Addressing Security Concerns

Dr. Dampare expressed concerns over potential election-day violence, misinformation and the misuse of motorbikes near polling stations, urging all stakeholders to play their part in maintaining peace.

He reminded attendees that Ghana’s status as a trailblazer in African democracy depends on the success of peaceful elections. “At the end of the day, we have one Ghana. Let’s protect it for future generations,” he reiterated.

The IGP also assured the public of his outfit’s preparedness, emphasising their commitment to fairness and impartiality throughout the electoral process.

Calls for Professionalism and Vigilance

Justice Kodua Frimpong, General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), called for heightened vigilance in electoral hotspots, citing past incidents of unrest.

Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Director of Elections for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), commended the NESTF for its proactive measures and emphasised the importance of professionalism.

He particularly praised the ban on lethal weapons at polling stations and clarified that only the IGP could authorise military intervention, underscoring the importance of accountability in safeguarding democracy.

“This ensures accountability and professionalism, protecting Ghana’s democracy,” Dr. Omane Boamah stated, adding, “It is only when we secure peace and stability that we can fix our economy and move forward as a nation.”

Coordinated Security Measures

The NESTF has mobilised resources from various security agencies, including the Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Prisons Service and Ghana National Fire Service, to ensure a peaceful electoral process.

As preparations intensify, the taskforce reassured citizens of their readiness to uphold Ghana’s legacy of free, fair and peaceful elections, calling for collective efforts to make Ghana’s democracy a success.

Police Commend Political Parties’ Cooperation

A senior police official, on his part, noted the smooth handling of pre-election activities, such as voter registration and transfers, highlighting the role of cooperation in mitigating challenges.

“We are committed to maintaining law and order. Offenders who disrupt the process will face justice and there’s no hiding place for those who break electoral laws,” the official assured.

While acknowledging isolated incidents, he praised the swift resolution of most issues and highlighted that Ghana’s peaceful preparations have drawn international admiration.

“Foreigners visiting Ghana have noted the relative peace in our election preparations, a testament to our maturity as a democracy,” the official remarked.

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