The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called on the Ghana Police Service to swiftly arrest and prosecute individuals behind the recent election violence in Ablekuma North, stressing that decisive action is needed before the upcoming Akwatia by-election.
The demand was made during a high-level meeting between the Police Service and political parties on preparations for the September 2 by-election in the Akwatia Constituency.
Speaking to the media after the engagement, NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye said confidence in security arrangements for the by-election hinges on how authorities deal with the Ablekuma North case.
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“We said that thugs linked to the NDC who caused mayhem are all over in pictures and videos, yet the Police have not made decisive arrests. We only heard of two arrests, but there’s no update. Were they sent to court? Are they on remand? We don’t know,” he said.
Mr. Boakye added that the party pressed strongly for answers, and the Inspector-General of Police assured them that arrests would be effected soon. “If we are to rely on these assurances, then the Police must show us that they have dealt with the Ablekuma North issue,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), represented by its Deputy Director of Elections and IT, Rashid Tanko-Computer, urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to tighten security at polling stations.
He argued that only accredited officials should be allowed access, warning that the presence of unauthorized former state officials contributed to the chaos in Ablekuma North.
“We are committed to the peace plan, but mindful of our opponents who come with dangerous weapons. Recall that during the Ablekuma North elections, one of the leaders, Hawa Koomson, had pepper spray in her bag. That must not happen again,” he said.
The Police have pledged to address the concerns of both parties and ensure a secure electoral process in Akwatia.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem