Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, Ghana’s former Minister of Communications, has emphasized the need for enhanced transparency and accountability within the security protocols of the upcoming elections.
In an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Face to Face on Channel One TV, Spio-Garbrah urged Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo-Dampare to mandate that all security personnel refrain from concealing their faces while on duty at polling stations.
Spio-Garbrah’s concerns stem from the potential for misconduct by masked or unidentified officers, which he believes could undermine the credibility of the electoral process. He argued that by ensuring officers remain easily identifiable, the Ghana Police Service could promote public confidence and deter any improper behavior at polling stations.
He further advocated for the use of clear, visible name tags on all security officers, saying this would enhance transparency and accountability. “People should not come with their faces covered,” he said.
“I’m hoping that the IGP and other security agencies will issue instructions that those responsible for security work during the elections should not attempt to cover their faces.” Spio-Garbrah emphasized that displaying identities would allow citizens to hold officers accountable for their actions, thus supporting a fair and safe electoral process.
Addressing the potential risk of misconduct, Spio-Garbrah suggested that name tags be prominently displayed on both the front and back of officers’ uniforms. “Their physical identities should have name tags, big and bold on their chest and even on their back,” he explained.
“If you fire a gun in a place and you are running, people should know.” He emphasized that these measures would be instrumental in curbing any misbehavior, urging that security agencies take these warnings seriously.
Spio-Garbrah also indicated that should the National Democratic Congress (NDC) come to power, it would place significant focus on prosecuting electoral offenses. He issued a strong warning to the Electoral Commissioner, her staff, and all law enforcement agencies, underscoring that any infractions during the election period would not be taken lightly.
“The next NDC government will not take it lightly if crimes are committed during the electioneering period,” he declared. “The Electoral Commissioner, her staff, and law enforcement agencies are all put on notice. We want a peaceful election in Ghana, and we are going to hold everybody accountable.”
This call for transparency is seen as an effort to foster public trust in the upcoming election by ensuring that all parties involved in maintaining order are clearly identifiable. Spio-Garbrah’s statements underline a strong commitment to upholding democratic values and safeguarding Ghana’s electoral integrity.
