The Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has asked political parties such as the New Patriotic Party, National Democratic Congress, and other interested parties to enter into the general elections of 2024 with a balanced mind, preparing for defeat and victory in equal measure.
Speaking at a security briefing in Accra, Dr. Dampare underlined that political activities in the run-up to the elections should be peaceful, and all parties involved should collaborate to ensure the smooth running of free and popular elections. "You must prepare for defeat just as much as you prepare for victory," he said, adding that an election successfully conducted is not only about obtaining power but also about retaining public confidence and maintaining the democratic exercise.
These comments by the IGP come at a time when political tensions are expected to rise, as the NPP and NDC prepare for what many have described as a keen contest. With the two major parties already conducting intensive campaigns, Dr. Dampare's comments seek to discourage any actions that will disrupt the integrity of the election process. He also repeated that security agencies have a critical role in maintaining law and order during the exercise, adding that all should have the right to vote without threats.
He further added that even though the police are ready for the security challenges, they will be neutral but confined to ensuring that the public's rights to freely participate in the elections are protected. Dr. Dampare urged political leaders and their supporters to be mature, refrain from actions that may provoke others, and respect the rule of law as the polls approach.
Besides this, the IGP encouraged political parties to get ready for either of the two eventualities; he also called for post-election peace and warned against post-election violence or unrest. "The nation must come together after the elections, regardless of the results, to continue building on our democratic gains," he said.
As the country moves closer to the elections, the IGP's call for peace and fairness serves as a reminder to all political actors of the responsibility they bear in preserving the nation’s democracy.
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