IGP Dr Dampare urges all stakeholders to walk the talk of peace

The National Elections Security Task Force (NESTF), under the leadership of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has called on all stakeholders to uphold the laws of Ghana to ensure free, fair, transparent, and peaceful elections.
Speaking at a meeting at the Electoral Commission’s (EC) headquarters in Accra, Dr. Dampare stressed the importance of actions over words in maintaining peace.
“Actions conforming to the law resonate more powerfully than words,” he said, urging stakeholders to “walk the talk of peace” as the nation heads toward the December 7, 2024, polls.

The IGP lauded the Electoral Commission, political parties, and the Ghanaian populace for their exemplary behavior in the lead-up to the elections, noting that such conduct has contributed to a peaceful and cooperative atmosphere.
He reaffirmed the readiness of the National Elections Security Task Force to collaborate with all stakeholders, ensuring the elections are conducted in a manner befitting Ghana’s democratic reputation.

Record-breaking electoral peace
Dr. Dampare highlighted that the preparations for this year’s election have surpassed those of previous years in terms of maintaining a peaceful and secure environment.
He attributed this achievement to the collective efforts of all stakeholders, noting that it marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s electoral history.
“We are witnessing an unprecedented level of peace and collaboration in the lead-up to this election,” the IGP stated.
“All stakeholders deserve credit for fostering this conducive security atmosphere.”

Standing ovation for political parties
The IGP recalled a meeting held last week with political parties and their leaders at the Police Headquarters, during which he invited members of the Task Force to applaud the political actors. He commended them for maintaining decorum throughout the campaign period, citing the absence of violence or security breaches that have previously tainted elections.
This appreciation, he said, extends to the EC, political parties, and Ghanaians at large for ensuring a peaceful pre-election process.

Appeal for continued adherence to the law
Dr. Dampare urged stakeholders to sustain their commitment to peace by acting transparently, fairly, and within the law.
He also reassured the EC of the Task Force’s readiness to support its constitutional mandate while encouraging political parties and their members to play their roles responsibly and within legal boundaries.

Assurance of safety for all
The IGP assured Ghanaians of their safety during and beyond the election period.
He encouraged citizens to carry out their activities freely, affirming the Task Force’s preparedness to safeguard the nation’s peace and security.
“The National Elections Security Task Force is committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to make this year’s election the most peaceful in Ghana’s history,” Dr. Dampare said.
Briefing the Taskforce on the Commission’s activities so far, Mrs Jean Mensa, Chairperson, EC, said the body was prepared for the Special Voting Exercise slated for Monday, December 2, 2024, at 328 Centres across the country.
She said all ballot papers, except that of the Bono, Bono East and Northern regions, had been distributed and assured that those for the remaining regions would be distributed on Tuesday afternoon.
Mrs Mensa said Biometric Verification Devices had been distributed to eight regions for safe keeping in police armoury.

She said the Commission had recruited close to 210,000 temporary staff for the elections and they were undergoing training to ensure high professional standards.
Mrs Mensa reiterated that the Commission “is committed to organising peaceful, transparent, credible, and fair elections.”
Eligible Ghanaian voters will go to the polls on December 7, 2024, to elect a President and 276 Members of Parliament to lead the country in the next four years.

High-level security representation
The meeting was attended by several high-ranking security officials, demonstrating the importance of coordinated efforts to ensure peaceful elections.
Among those present were Major General Bismarck Kwasi Onwona, representing the Chief of Defence Staff; Mr. Isaac Kofi Egyir, Director General of Prisons; Mr. Julius Kuunuor, Chief Fire Officer; Mr. Kwame Asuah Takyi, Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service; Brigadier General Zibrim Bawah Ayorrogo, Commissioner of Customs; and members of the Technical Committees of the Task Force.

Pledge for a peaceful election
As the December 7 elections approach, Dr. Dampare’s message serves as a call to unity and vigilance.
The NESTF remains dedicated to ensuring that Ghana’s democratic process is conducted in an atmosphere of peace and security, fostering confidence among citizens and stakeholders alike.