The Electoral Commission (EC) has banned the use of mobile phones or gadgets that can take photographs at the ongoing by-election in the Assin North Constituency of the Central Region.
The directive from the EC was given following agreement with stakeholders, when they met with the security and the various political parties taking part in the election.
At the meeting, it was agreed that the police will ensure that no voter takes a photograph of their thumb-printed ballot.
The by-election is generating some tension in the area as the crucial election is between deposed MP, James Gyakye Quayson of the NDC, Charles Opoku, the candidate representing the governing NPP, and one other representing the LPG.
Currently, there is a heavy security presence across the 99 polling centers and the entire communities to ensure adequate security.
The Police have so far deployed over 800 personnel to ensure security, law, and order before, during, and after the election.
The Assin North by-election has prompted the Police Service to take proactive measures.
During a visit to some of the polling centers, the Police officers are armed to send strong message to trouble makers.
The Police have also deployed drones to monitor activities in the constituency.
The police also emphasized their commitment to securing the constituency and reiterated their dedication to providing a safe environment for voters and residents.
On Monday, the IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare met with the leaders of both the New Patriotic Partry and the opposition National Democratic Congress, NDC, where he ordered all bodyguards of Members of Parliament (MPs) and other state officials to hand over their weapons.
This directive, issued less than 24 hours before the polls on Tuesday was aimed at ensuring a safe and peaceful electoral process.
The Police assured that the security concerns raised by all stakeholders were taken into account when formulating the final security strategy for the election.
Furthermore, the police in its statement encouraged the residents of Assin North to carry out their daily activities without fear and emphasized the importance of exercising their civic duty by casting their votes.
BY Daniel Bampoe