Ablekuma North rerun: Security plans to follow

As the Electoral Commission (EC) prepares for the rerun of the parliamentary election in the Ablekuma North constituency, security agencies have announced robust measures to guarantee a peaceful and credible electoral process. The rerun, scheduled in response to challenges encountered during the December 2024 general elections, has drawn national attention amid political tensions and heightened public interest.

The Ghana Police Service, in collaboration with the National Election Security Task Force, has stated that all necessary preparations are being made to ensure the safety of voters, election officials, and party agents throughout the constituency. Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, the Director of Public Affairs of the Ghana Police Service, ACP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, revealed that deployments will include both uniformed and plainclothes personnel.

“Our strategy is to prevent violence, deter electoral fraud, and reassure the public of our neutrality and commitment to law enforcement. There will be joint patrols, strategic checkpoints, and rapid response teams stationed across all key polling centres,” she said.

In addition to police presence, personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces, Fire Service, and Immigration Service will be on standby to support the election task force in the event of any disturbance. While Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul has assured the public that there will be no direct military deployment at polling stations, the military will play a background support role in emergencies.

The Electoral Commission has also partnered with traditional and religious leaders in the area to promote voter education and conflict prevention. These efforts aim to reduce political tensions and prevent the spread of misinformation ahead of the polls.

Political parties contesting the rerun have been urged to adhere to the electoral code of conduct. The EC has warned against the use of provocative language, voter intimidation, and unapproved campaign tactics.

Civil society organisations, including CODEO and the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), have welcomed the proactive security measures. They are also deploying election observers to monitor the process and enhance transparency.

As Ablekuma North braces for this crucial rerun, the nation watches with cautious optimism, hoping that the enhanced security plans will pave the way for a free, fair, and peaceful electoral outcome.