The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has voiced significant concern regarding the actions of security personnel and the overall condition of law enforcement during the parliamentary rerun that took place on Friday, July 11, 2025, in the Ablekuma North Constituency, cautioning that this scenario presents a “clear and present danger” to the democracy of Ghana.
This concern follows a violent occurrence at the St. Peter’s Society Methodist Church polling centre, where it was reported that police officers remained passive as unidentified individuals invaded the venue and disrupted the voting process.
Among those who were assaulted during this disruption were the former MP for Awutu Senya East, Hawa Koomson, and the NPP’s parliamentary candidate for the constituency, Nana Akua Afriyie. Additionally, two journalists and the NPP’s deputy national organiser, Chris Lloyd Asamoah, were also victims of attacks by the same group of assailants.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, July 14, CODEO criticized the Ghana Police Service for its failure to safeguard voters, polling officials, and party agents, despite the substantial deployment of security personnel in the area.
“The security deficiencies noted during this election rerun—despite the apparent police presence—raise very serious concerns regarding the condition of the Ghana Police Service,” the statement indicated.
CODEO also pointed out that unauthorized individuals, believed to be political vigilantes, were observed moving freely in and around polling centres, some utilizing unlicensed vehicles, thereby fostering an environment of fear and intimidation.
The organization characterized the situation as particularly alarming given the high-stakes nature of the election and the urban context in which it occurred.
“This behavior of the police was noted during the 2024 elections and transition,” CODEO recalled, cautioning that the ongoing “emasculation” of the Ghana Police Service could undermine public trust in democratic processes and jeopardize national security.
The coalition is consequently urging President John Mahama and the Police Council to exercise their authority under Article 202(2) of the 1992 Constitution to implement immediate measures.
“This action must be taken without delay to guarantee that clear remedial steps are established before the forthcoming bye-election in Akwatia,” CODEO emphasized.
Furthermore, the coalition has called upon political parties, the Electoral Commission, security agencies, and the judiciary to contemplate these developments and adopt definitive actions to address election violence, political vigilantism, and threats to the independence of the police.
“The failure to take action at this moment could jeopardize Ghana’s nascent democracy and threaten future electoral processes,” the coalition cautioned.
