The Inspector General of Police, George Akuffo Dampare, has warned that the police will not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone who attempts to disrupt the upcoming elections.
Speaking at the Police and Political Parties’ engagement in Accra, IGP Dampare emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and security during the electoral process.
Call for Calm
George Akuffo Dampare began by urging all parties to remain calm, stating, “Let us all calm down. This is an election, and after the election, there is life… We shouldn’t play it as if there is no me today, then everything should come to an end.”
Appreciation for Cooperation
The IGP expressed gratitude to political parties for their trust and confidence in the police, particularly during internal elections.
“We commend you all for such a feat, where you ceded the fullness of security to us… We are grateful and we commend you all for such a feat.”
Security Measures
Dampare assured that the police will deal decisively with any individuals attempting to disrupt the elections.
“We’ll be waiting for them. If you want to vote, then submit yourself to the police… We’ll deal with you in the law.”
Commendation for Peaceful Campaign
The IGP praised political leaders and presidential candidates for conducting themselves peacefully during the campaigning process.
“So far, with a few pockets of incidents, we haven’t had anything that is beyond control… And if there are people to be commended, it’s you.”
Commitment to Peace
The IGP reaffirmed the police’s commitment to ensuring peace, security, law, and order.
He said “Where we need to engage, we will engage. Where we need to de-escalate, we will de-escalate… But where we need to be merciless, when it comes to the application of law, we will.”
Message to Ghana
The IGP concluded by emphasizing Ghana’s capability to manage its affairs.
“We pray that the rest of the period for campaigning will bear with us, for us to walk through this successfully… And be able to show to the world that indeed, black lives matter. That Ghana is capable of managing its affairs.”
Background:
The 2024 general elections are scheduled for December 7, with tensions rising among political parties.
The Police with political parties engagement was aimed at addressing concerns and outline security measures for the elections.
-BY Daniel Bampoe