December Polls: No Military Personnel Will Be Stationed at Polling Stations – GAF Assures
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has assured the general public that no military personnel will be deployed to polling stations during the December 2024 general elections. This announcement comes amid heightened concerns over the role of security agencies in ensuring peaceful and credible elections.
In a press statement issued on Monday, GAF emphasized their commitment to upholding democratic principles and maintaining neutrality throughout the electoral process. The statement clarified that the military's role will be limited to providing backup support to the Ghana Police Service, who will take the lead in election security.
Upholding Peace and Neutrality
According to the release, GAF recognizes the importance of preserving peace and ensuring that citizens feel safe while casting their votes. "We are committed to supporting the democratic process in a manner that reflects our apolitical stance," the statement read. "No military personnel will be stationed at polling stations, as this remains the responsibility of the police and other designated election security agencies."
The announcement follows widespread calls from civil society organizations, political parties, and the general public for clear guidelines on the deployment of security personnel during the elections. Concerns were raised about the presence of armed forces in previous elections, which some critics argued could intimidate voters and undermine the credibility of the process.
Strategic Deployment Plan
The Ghana Police Service has been designated as the lead agency in providing security at polling stations. GAF’s role will involve deploying personnel to strategic locations outside polling centers to respond to emergencies or unforeseen security threats. This strategy, according to the military, ensures that they can act swiftly if called upon while maintaining a non-intrusive presence.
Major General Richard Addo, the spokesperson for GAF, reiterated the institution's readiness to cooperate with all stakeholders. "We have held several inter-agency meetings with the Electoral Commission and the National Election Security Task Force to define our roles clearly. Our focus is on maintaining peace, not interfering with the voting process," he stated.
Reactions from Stakeholders
The assurance from GAF has been met with mixed reactions. While many stakeholders have welcomed the move as a step in the right direction, others remain skeptical.
Dr. Kwesi Amankwah, a political analyst, praised the decision, saying, "This is a positive development. It will boost public confidence and encourage more people to participate in the elections without fear of intimidation."
However, some opposition parties expressed concerns about the potential for violence in certain hotspots and questioned whether the police alone could handle such situations effectively.
Way Forward
As the December elections draw closer, GAF has urged all citizens to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies to ensure a peaceful process. They also cautioned against the spread of misinformation that could incite panic or mistrust.
The Electoral Commission has also commended GAF for their proactive stance and reassured the public that measures are in place to ensure a transparent, free, and fair election.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the success of these collaborative efforts, as Ghana strives to maintain its reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0