The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has assured the public of the Ghana Police Service’s readiness to provide a safe and secure environment for the upcoming Akwatia by-election in the Eastern Region.
The IGP gave the assurance after the Police Management Board (POMAB) visited the High-Risk Operation Training Centre at Akyerematen on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, to assess the preparedness of personnel ahead of the polls.
According to the Service, the visit formed part of broader security measures to ensure peace and order before, during, and after the September 2 by-election.
Mr. Yohuno emphasized that officers have undergone intensive training to respond swiftly to potential threats.
“We have brought men here, and they are trained on how to handle arms. As we move to the election grounds, we decided to sharpen our skills for the by-election. Today, they will proceed to Akwatia to assess all potential threats, just to let the country know we are ready,” he said. He added that the measures were aimed at dispelling fears and ensuring that “nobody can come here to cause any trouble.”
On Tuesday, August 19, the Ghana Police Service also held a meeting with political parties to review security preparations.
Following the engagement, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, urged the Police to act decisively against perpetrators of electoral violence. He cited the recent disturbances in Ablekuma North and pressed for accountability.
“We saw videos of thugs linked to the NDC who caused mayhem, yet we have not seen decisive arrests. The IGP assured us that action will be taken, and we expect results,” he stressed.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC), on the other hand, called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to strengthen security protocols at polling stations. The party’s Deputy Director of Elections and IT, Rashid Tanko-Computer, urged the EC to restrict access to accredited persons only.
“We are committed to peace, but mindful of activities of our opponents. Recall what happened in Ablekuma North. We are telling them that former MPs or ministers without accreditation have no business at polling stations,” he said.
Both parties expressed support for enhanced security arrangements but urged authorities to address past lapses to restore public confidence ahead of the by-election.
