Police prepared for December 7 polls – IGP

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has assured Ghanaians of the Ghana Police Service’s readiness to manage security before, during, and after the upcoming December 7 general elections.

Speaking at the Alisa Hotel in Accra on Thursday, July 4, 2024, during an engagement with the eminent group formed by the Christian Council of Ghana, Dr. Dampare emphasised the proactive and institutionalised approach the police have adopted alongside other security agencies.

“We have been ready for years because we have institutionalised and mainstreamed election security for the first time in the history of this country. Elections are not seen as events but as a process in a cycle where the end of one is the beginning of another,” Dr. Dampare stated.

He highlighted that this approach has resulted in peaceful and secure elections over the past few years, with significant collaboration from the National Election Security Task Force.

Dr. Dampare also pointed to the success of recent elections, including internal party elections.

“All the elections for the past almost three years, including internal elections of the parties, the selection of parliamentary candidates, and presidential candidates have been historically secure.

“This is an indication of our readiness, working in concert with security forces and more importantly, with patriotic Ghanaians who want to see the country remain at peace,” he noted.

The IGP reassured Ghanaians of a peaceful electoral process and stressed the importance of professionalism and a de-escalation mindset in handling conflicts.

“For the 2024 elections, we are ensuring a clear de-escalation mindset amid confusion and agitations. We need to be professional and ensure that we settle issues among the conflicting parties in a way that unites them,” he added.