The Ghana Police Service has urged political parties and independent candidates to manage their expectations for the upcoming 2024 general elections, emphasizing the need for peace and stability in what is anticipated to be a high-stakes contest. This call was made during a comprehensive police briefing held on November 21, where representatives from all political parties were present to discuss election security and the role of the police in ensuring a peaceful process.
During the briefing, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, reaffirmed the Police Service’s readiness to handle electoral issues professionally, highlighting its commitment to maintaining peace and order throughout the electoral process. Dr. Dampare’s address emphasized the necessity for all stakeholders to adopt a mature approach to the elections, particularly in recognizing that the nature of such contests inevitably leads to both victory and defeat.
With a record number of candidates competing in this election, the stakes are high. “With the 13 or the 12, whichever it is, there is one clear thing—only one will win, the rest will not win,” Dr. Dampare stated, referring to the number of presidential candidates expected to contest the elections. He continued by pointing out that for the 801 parliamentary aspirants vying for 276 seats, only 276 will emerge victorious, while the others must accept their outcomes.
This message, while stark, was intended to promote realistic expectations among political stakeholders and to encourage them to prepare for both victory and defeat. Dr. Dampare underscored the importance of accepting electoral outcomes in good faith to safeguard Ghana’s democratic process and national stability. “If I want to be very blunt, I will say that as you plan to celebrate your possible victory, plan to celebrate your defeat or endure your defeat. At the end of the day, Ghana and only Ghanaians will win in this election,” he stated firmly.
The IGP’s remarks reflect the Ghana Police Service’s broader strategy for the elections, which involves ensuring that all forms of electoral violence or misconduct are managed decisively. He assured the public and political actors that the police would act impartially, employing the necessary measures to either escalate or de-escalate situations, depending on the circumstances.
This proactive engagement with political parties underscores the Service’s commitment to fostering an environment where elections can be conducted without fear or intimidation. By setting clear expectations and outlining the role of the police, the briefing aimed to build trust among political stakeholders and encourage them to contribute to a peaceful electoral process.
The 2024 general elections are expected to be one of the most closely contested in Ghana’s history, with political tensions already running high. Against this backdrop, the Police Service’s call for calm and its emphasis on realistic expectations are crucial for maintaining peace. Dr. Dampare’s candid message serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility of all stakeholders to prioritize Ghana’s unity and democratic integrity over personal or party ambitions.
The briefing also provided an opportunity for political parties to raise concerns and seek clarifications on the police’s preparedness for the elections. The Ghana Police Service assured all parties of its neutrality and readiness to deploy resources effectively to ensure a safe and secure electoral process. This assurance is particularly important given the critical role of the police in safeguarding election integrity and public confidence in the democratic process.
Dr. Dampare’s emphasis on preparedness extended beyond the Police Service to the political parties themselves. He called on party leaders and candidates to educate their supporters on the importance of peaceful conduct and to avoid actions that could incite violence or disrupt the electoral process. This appeal highlights the interconnected roles of law enforcement and political stakeholders in ensuring a successful election.
The IGP’s forthright approach has been widely praised for its focus on accountability and the need for a unified commitment to national peace. By openly addressing the challenges and expectations associated with the elections, the Ghana Police Service is setting a standard for transparency and proactive engagement.
As the 2024 elections draw closer, the Police Service’s preparations will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the electoral environment. The public’s trust in the Service’s ability to manage election-related issues effectively will be key to ensuring widespread participation and confidence in the outcomes.
The message from Dr. Dampare and the Police Service is clear: the elections are not just about winners and losers but about the collective progress of Ghana. By encouraging political parties to adopt a measured and mature approach, the Police Service is reinforcing the values of democracy and national unity.
In a period where political tensions can easily escalate, the Ghana Police Service’s proactive stance is a reassuring sign of its commitment to upholding peace and stability. The Service’s engagement with political parties and its emphasis on realistic expectations serve as important reminders of the shared responsibility to ensure that the 2024 elections reflect the will of the people in a peaceful and orderly manner.
As the nation prepares for this critical event, the Police Service’s role will remain central to fostering an environment where every Ghanaian can exercise their democratic rights without fear. Dr. Dampare’s candid and forward-looking message sets the tone for a collaborative effort towards a peaceful and successful election.
