The Inspector General of Police (IGP) and Chairman of the National Election Security Task Force (NESTF), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare has cautioned private security operators to refrain from interfering with the work of state security agencies during the upcoming electoral process.
Speaking during an engagement with private security operators on December 1, 2024 Dr. Dampare emphasised that state security agencies, led by the police, hold sole responsibility for maintaining law and order during elections.
“Our discussion is centered on ensuring that our brothers and sisters in the private security sector carry out their activities in a way that complements the security arrangements we have put in place,” Dr. Dampare stated.
He stressed the importance of projecting a unified and professional approach to election security, ensuring that both citizens and international observers have confidence in Ghana’s ability to conduct peaceful elections.
“We do not want any confusion about who is in charge of security,” the IGP added. “We aim to create a secure environment where every voter feels confident to exercise their rights without intimidation or apprehension.”
Dr. Dampare assured political parties, candidates and voters that the state security apparatus is fully prepared to provide a safe electoral environment.
He discouraged political actors from attempting to organize private security for their activities, reiterating that state agencies are wholly responsible for electoral security.
The IGP further urged private security personnel to avoid actions that could confuse or intimidate the public, particularly the sight of unauthorized uniforms that might undermine voter confidence.
“We want voters to walk into polling stations peacefully, with the assurance that no one will intimidate them or disrupt their rights,” he stated.
Dr. Dampare concluded by urging private security operators to align their operations with state protocols, emphasising the need for unity and professionalism to uphold Ghana’s reputation for peaceful elections.
“We stand ready to support all stakeholders as long as their actions contribute to a safe and credible electoral process,” the IGP affirmed.
In response, the President of the Private Security Association of Ghana, Ibrahim Abdul-Rahman Usunaba, assured the public of the association’s commitment to supporting state-led efforts.
“Our mandate is guided by the Police Service Act, and we have been in constant dialogue with the Election Task Force and police administration,” Usunaba said. “We have educated our members to act professionally on election day and avoid actions that could harm the industry or Ghana as a whole.”
He reaffirmed the private security sector’s dedication to adhering to directives from the police and other state agencies to ensure a peaceful and credible election process.
The engagement reflects a broader effort by the National Election Security Task Force to coordinate with all stakeholders and minimize potential disruptions during the elections.
Content by: BERNICE BESSEY
