Ensuring safety and accountability in Ghana’s 2024 elections

As Ghanaians prepare for the 2024 elections just days away, the safety and integrity of the electoral process have become critical concerns for both law enforcement and citizens. A key component of this process is the deployment of the Ghana Police Service (GPS) National Election Security Taskforce, supported by Allied Security Services, to polling stations and collation centres where votes are counted and declared.

Unfortunately, past elections have been marred by incidents of violence, including the tragic killing of eight civilians by Allied Forces during the 2020 elections. These incidents remain largely uninvestigated, and accountability for the officers involved is still lacking. Addressing such lapses requires the implementation of clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for security personnel, alongside a strong commitment to transparency and accountability.

While it is commendable that the Ghana Police Service has developed a comprehensive document exceeding 5,000 pages to guide the policing of the upcoming election, it is disappointing that this document has not been shared with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), key stakeholders in Ghana’s democratic process, the media or published on the GPS Homepage/Website. Transparency in this regard would enhance public awareness of citizens’ rights and responsibilities, while reinforcing trust in the electoral process.

The Importance of Identifiable Security Personnel

One of the most pressing issues for election security is the need for identifiable security personnel. Incidents such as the killing of eight civilians at a collation centre during the 2020 elections and the presence of masked individuals intimidating voters in some parts of the country highlight the dangers of anonymity in law enforcement.

When officers wear gear/uniform that obscures their identity—such as face masks, balaclavas (popularly known as “Azuku Masks”), or unmarked uniforms—it creates an environment of fear and suspicion. Without clear identification, it is difficult for the public to trust that officers are acting within the law or to hold them accountable in cases of misconduct.

All security personnel deployed as part of the National Election Security Taskforce must wear visible badges, name tags, or numbered insignia. This level of transparency fosters trust between law enforcement and the public and ensures that officers are accountable for their actions. Clear identification also helps reduce chaos during high-tension situations, ensuring public safety and protecting election materials.

Establishing Clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Beyond identification, comprehensive SOPs are essential to guide the conduct of security personnel during elections. These procedures should cover the following areas:

1. De-escalation Tactics

Officers must be trained in non-violent methods for crowd control. SOPs should prioritise de-escalation, ensuring force is used only as a last resort. Verbal warnings, containment strategies, and tactical retreats should take precedence over physical confrontation.

2. Use of Force

Clear guidelines must define the appropriate use of force, especially lethal force, which should only be employed when there is an immediate threat to life. Officers must prioritise non-lethal measures and ensure accountability for any use of excessive force.

3. Protection of Election Infrastructure

Security personnel should safeguard polling stations, election materials (ballot boxes, biometric verification devices, and results sheets), and election officials from interference or violence. SOPs should outline specific procedures for securing these assets before, during, and after the voting process.

4. Crowd Management

Effective strategies for managing large crowds at polling and collation centers are crucial. Security personnel must be trained to recognise early signs of unrest and know when to call for reinforcements. Collaboration with election officials and party representatives is essential to avoid misunderstandings and reduce conflict risks.

5. Public Interaction and Communication

Officers must maintain professionalism and respect in their interactions with citizens. SOPs should provide guidelines for handling public inquiries and complaints, with designated points of contact to address security concerns. Regular public announcements should also inform citizens of security measures in place.

6. Handling Election-related Violence

In the event of violence, clear protocols must be in place to contain the situation without escalating tensions. An independent review mechanism should investigate incidents of misconduct or excessive force, ensuring accountability.

7. Cooperation with Observers and Media

Security forces must ensure unrestricted access for accredited election observers and media personnel. This transparency enhances public confidence and mitigates allegations of electoral malpractice.

Accountability and the Prevention of Violence

The tragic incidents of the 2020 elections and the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election underscore the urgent need for accountability. Identifiable officers and clear SOPs can deter misconduct, as officers will know their actions are subject to scrutiny.

Additionally, SOPs should include detailed protocols for documenting and investigating incidents involving the use of force. In cases where civilians are harmed or killed, swift, independent, and transparent investigations are essential to hold perpetrators accountable. This level of accountability will help restore public confidence in the Ghana Police Service and other allied security forces.

Promoting Transparency and Public Trust

Transparency is the cornerstone of public trust in law enforcement, especially during elections. By ensuring that officers are identifiable and operate within established guidelines, the National Election Security Taskforce can foster a safer and more peaceful electoral environment.

Moreover, transparency enables monitoring by human rights organisations, CSOs, the media, and the public, ensuring that law enforcement operates at the highest standards of conduct. Violations or misconduct can be promptly addressed, reducing the likelihood of abuses of power.

Conclusion

As Ghana approaches the 2024 elections, the deployment of identifiable security personnel operating under clear and comprehensive SOPs is crucial for maintaining peace, protecting lives, and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. These measures will prevent the tragedies of the past, foster public trust, and safeguard Ghana’s democracy.

By committing to transparency, accountability, and professionalism, the National Election Security Taskforce can create a secure environment where elections are free, fair, and devoid of unnecessary harm.

Long live Ghana! May God grant her peace and prosperity before, during, and after the 2024 elections.

By: Swalah, Abubakar Sidiq

Army Veteran, Security Expert, Criminologist