The Eastern Regional Elections Security Taskforce has reiterated its dedication to fostering a peaceful environment before, during, and after the elections scheduled for December 7. Colonel Gyadu Emmanuel, the Director of Operations at the Army Headquarters, emphasized that while the military will not engage directly in election activities, it will be prepared to assist civilian security agencies if necessary.
In detailing the protocols for military involvement, Colonel Gyadu noted that the Police Service serves as the primary line of defense in ensuring election security. The Eastern Regional Police Commander, DCOP Twumasi-Ankrah, who leads the Election Security Taskforce in the region, provided assurances of well-coordinated security measures to maintain a peaceful environment throughout the electoral process.
He stated, “As we consistently emphasize, one peace, one people, one common destiny, we are all committed to working together to guarantee a peaceful election on D-Day, which is the aspiration of the national election security taskforce. We are determined to achieve this. Our message to the public is that we advocate for peace, and we encourage them to do the same.”
Eastern Regional Commanding Officer, DCO1 Faisal Disu, urged security personnel to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures during the election and to promptly request reinforcements when necessary.
“The military will not be directly involved. We will remain on standby. The security forces under the Ministry of Interior will be the ones present near the ballot boxes. In the event of any disturbances, the Ghana Police Service will be the first responders, and we all recognize their capability to address any anticipated threats.
“Until that time, we will remain in our barracks and Forward Operating Bases, ready and alert with our communication devices. Should the situation exceed the police’s control, they will reach out to us through established channels. No soldier is authorized to act independently in response to any confusion.”
Eastern Regional Minister Seth Acheampong has called on stakeholders to refrain from engaging in any form of mischief during the election period, referencing recent instances of misinformation regarding a broken seal on a bag that contained electoral materials.
