Election Security Taskforce outlaws ‘machomen’, intimidation

In preparation for Ghana’s upcoming December 7 General Elections, the National Election Security Taskforce, under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has issued a strong warning against electoral intimidation by well-built men known as “machomen” usually aligned to political parties and impersonation of security personnel.
During a meeting with political party leaders at the Police Headquarters, the Taskforce outlined strict measures to ensure a peaceful and secure election process.

Ban on “Machoism” and Intimidation
Dr. Dampare reiterated the Taskforce’s “zero tolerance” stance on the phenomenon of “machoism,” which has historically been associated with electoral intimidation.
He warned that individuals who attempt to intimidate voters or disrupt the peace at polling stations, collation centers, or within communities will face swift and decisive legal action.
“Anyone found engaging in such acts of intimidation will be arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” the IGP assured.

Crackdown on unauthorized use of uniforms
The Taskforce also emphasized that only state security agencies have the mandate to provide security during the elections.
Dr. Dampare cautioned against the practice of non-security personnel wearing uniforms resembling those of state security forces, a tactic often used to instill fear and confusion among voters.
“Any individual who appears in unauthorized uniforms on election day will be arrested and dealt with accordingly,” the IGP warned, highlighting the Taskforce’s resolve to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.
Introduction of de-escalation strategy
To further enhance security, the Taskforce unveiled a new De-escalation Strategy aimed at addressing disputes before they escalate into violence.
This strategy includes providing direct contact numbers for Police leadership at the National, Regional, Divisional, and District levels to facilitate prompt resolution of any security issues.
Dr. Dampare noted that many election-related conflicts stem from minor disagreements that, without timely intervention, can spiral into larger confrontations.
The De-escalation Strategy is designed to offer immediate leadership intervention, ensuring such situations are quickly and effectively resolved.

Political parties pledge support
In response to the measures outlined by the Taskforce, political parties pledged their commitment to the security protocols, emphasizing their dedication to a peaceful electoral process.
The Taskforce, in turn, reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the elections, assuring the public that violations of these measures will not be tolerated.

A call for vigilance and cooperation
As Ghana prepares for its December 7 elections, the proactive measures set by the National Election Security Taskforce underscore the nation’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law.
With political parties, security agencies, and citizens working in unison, the elections are expected to be conducted in a secure, fair, and transparent environment.
The IGP concluded, “Let us all do our part to ensure a peaceful election, as we collectively uphold the democratic principles that define our great nation.”