By Evans Worlanyo Ameamu
Keta (VR), Aug 22, GNA- Mr. Bill Godson Ocloo, the Executive Director of African Centre for Human Security, has urged political parties to ensure by-elections to protect the country’s democracy.
His call comes ahead of the upcoming Akwatia by-election slated for September 2025.
The by-election is seen as another critical test for the country’s democratic resilience.
Mr. Ocloo, who is also a Security Analyst, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) ahead of Akwatia by-election, said that Ghana’s democratic journey has been marked by remarkable progress and resilience.
“The recent by-elections, such as the one in Ablekuma North, have been marred by violence and chaos, threatening the very fabric of the country’s democracy which needed urgent redress,” he said.
He explained that to prevent the recurrence of violence, several measures, including enhanced intelligence gathering, strategic deployment of security personnel, community engagement, and the use of technology should be implemented by the government and security agencies to help identify potential flashpoints and threatening elements before any violence erupts.
Mr. Ocloo emphasised the need for the Electoral Commission (EC) to launch comprehensive voter education campaigns, ensure transparency in electoral processes, and deploy electoral observers and party monitors across all polling stations to enable prevent any electoral violence.
He said: “The government must also take proactive steps to prepare for any unforeseen incidents. And this must include establishing emergency response teams, maintaining transparent communication channels, and reviewing and strengthening electoral and public order laws.”
Mr. Ocloo explained that the role of police and other security agencies in maintaining order must be based on clarity and professionalism and stressed the need for clear demarcation of responsibilities and strict action against vigilantism which posed a significant threat to electoral peace.
He emphasised the need for justice and punishment for culprits that would be involved in electoral violence or misconduct which should include fast-tracking cases, imposing appropriate penalties, and ensuring public accountability.
He said Ghana’s democracy flourished on the pillars of peace, respect for law, and civic responsibility and the upcoming Akwatia by-election could be a testament to the country’s collective maturity and commitment to uphold electoral integrity which required concerted efforts from security agencies, the EC, government, and citizens alike.
Mr. Ocloo said the success of the Akwatia by-election would depend on the collective efforts of all stakeholders and prioritise peace and electoral integrity, Ghanaians could demonstrate their commitment to democracy and ensure a brighter future for the country.
He also urged government officials and security agencies to resolve and punish all individuals who have engaged in election violence in previous exercises to serve as an example for others.
He also commended the Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yuhonu for thorough preparations ahead of the Akwatia by-election and urged the public to cooperate with the security agencies for smooth and successful by-elections ahead.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensah