The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has announced that no military personnel will be stationed at polling stations during the 2024 general elections. According to a statement from GAF, the military’s role will be limited to providing standby support upon formal request by the Ghana Police Service (GPS). The statement emphasized that the primary responsibility for election security rests with the police, ensuring a collaborative approach to maintaining peace and order throughout the electoral process.
“As part of our commitment to safeguarding national security during this critical democratic exercise, GAF wishes to reiterate that no military personnel will be stationed at polling stations. The military will only be deployed upon request by the GPS to provide additional reinforcements,” the statement read. This arrangement, GAF noted, is designed to ensure a smooth, peaceful election while protecting the integrity of the democratic process.
GAF also urged the public to report any individuals impersonating military personnel at polling stations. Citizens are encouraged to report such incidents to the nearest police station or call the Ghana Police Service’s toll-free numbers (18555 or 0800 311 311) for immediate action. This measure, GAF explained, is essential to maintain transparency and prevent disruptions that could undermine the election.
The Armed Forces reiterated its dedication to Ghana’s stability and sovereignty, calling on all citizens to exercise their civic rights responsibly, cooperate with security personnel, and refrain from actions that could jeopardize peace.
Meanwhile, the Special Voting exercise, part of the 2024 general elections, is taking place today, December 2, across 14 regions of Ghana. This allows 131,478 eligible voters, approximately 0.007% of the total registered electorate of 18,741,159, to cast their votes early. These voters include security personnel, election officials, and others whose professional duties may prevent them from voting on the general election day.
The Eastern and Western Regions are excluded from today’s special voting due to a security breach involving a defaced presidential ballot paper that was leaked from the printing house. Electoral Commission Chairperson Jean Mensa explained that this decision was taken to preserve the integrity of the process.
Special voting results will remain undisclosed until the conclusion of the general elections. This arrangement ensures that early voters can fulfill their professional responsibilities while participating in the democratic process without influencing the overall outcome.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0