By Eric Appah Marfo
Accra, Dec. 12, GNA— Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and the Clergy have praised the National Election Security Taskforce (NESTF) for their professionalism in handling post-election violence, looting, and destruction across the country.
They also called on the public to remain calm and allow the security agencies to carry out their duties as mandated by law.
The commendation came on Wednesday during a meeting between a delegation of representatives from CSO’s and others with Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and Chairman of the National Election Security Taskforce (NESTF).
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the ongoing post-election disturbances in parts of the country.
The CSO’s included the Civic Forum Initiative (CFI), the Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO), the Centre for Democratic Development-Ghana (CDD-Ghana), the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, the Christian Council of Ghana, and the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC).
Dr. Angela Dwamena-Aboagye, Chairperson of CFI, expressed confidence in the police’s ability to address the violence.
She said the delegation was reassured by the IGP’s outlined strategies for managing the situation, adding that civil society would continue to monitor developments closely.
“We are imposing a certain amount of trust in what the police have said because they have watched over us throughout this period.
“We don’t think they will renege on their duties,” she said, urging the police to sustain their efforts to de-escalate tensions and prevent further violence.
Rev. Dr. Fred Deegbe, Co-Chair of CODEO, also lauded the police for their professionalism during and after the elections, while acknowledging the challenges posed by the recent disturbances.
“We must commend the police for the calm and collected manner in which they conducted themselves during the election process. Some may want radical moves from the police, but we support their decision to prioritise de-escalation and avoid unnecessary loss of life,” he said.
Rt. Rev. Dr. Hilliard Dogbey, Chairman of the Christian Council of Ghana, applauded the efforts of the NESTF and other security agencies, emphasising the importance of post-election management.
“It’s a great pleasure to be here. We’ve had beautiful engagement this morning with the NESTF, which includes the police service, the Ghana army, and other security agencies. We’re all excited about the peace achieved during the elections and hope everyone responds responsibly to sustain it.
“Post-election management is as critical as the election itself. We thank God for His guidance and express our gratitude to the NESTF for ensuring peace,” he said.
Rt. Rev. Dr Gordon Kisseih, First Vice President of the GPCC, commended the police for their strategic, non-violent approach to handling post-election disturbances.
“We are impressed that not a single water cannon, baton, pepper spray, or bullet has been used.
“This demonstrates their high level of professionalism. However, we urge them to remain steadfast, as provocations can be high.
“We also call on the media to amplify positive developments and remind political leaders to uphold the peace accord signed before, during, and after the elections,” he said.
Dr. Abubakar Mohammed Marzuq Azindoo, Personal Assistant to the National Chief Imam, praised the police for adhering to transparency, diplomacy, and rationality in their response to the violence.
“These values have enhanced the image of the Ghana Police Service and bolstered public confidence in their ability to maintain order,” he said.
Dr. Kojo Asante, Director of Policy Engagement and Partnerships at CDD-Ghana and CODEO, urged all Ghanaians to respect the electoral process and follow due procedures to address grievances.
“This is our ninth election. By now, we should all know how these processes are managed. The police are collecting evidence, and those who instigate violence will face the law. Let us all encourage peaceful transitions and avoid actions that undermine our democracy,” he said.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director of Public Affairs, provided updates on the NESTF’s ongoing operations to address post-election violence.
“Our PEP strategy—pre-elections, electioneering, and post-elections—has been effectively deployed. During the post-election phase, we intensified joint patrols, deployed intelligence officers, and dedicated a team to review evidence to arrest perpetrators.
“So far, 107 suspects have been arrested, and calm has been restored in affected regions. We assure the public that we are in charge and will ensure law and order,” she explained.
ACP Ansah-Akrofi called on all stakeholders to work together to preserve peace, cautioning against misinformation and disinformation that could incite fear and panic.
GNA