The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has cautioned political parties to desist from using "machomen" or any form of violence in their campaign activities as the country approaches the 2024 elections. He warned that such acts are criminal and will disrupt the peaceful environment required for the successful conduct of an election.
In a recent statement, the police chief, Dampare, said police were monitoring the actions of the political parties and their supporters and were particularly worried about what he described as "physical intimidation" or the use of hired thugs. He emphasized that anyone who involved themselves in electoral violence either directly or indirectly, whether through so-called "machomen" to disrupt campaign activities or intimidate voters, would be arrested and charged according to law.
Political parties must ensure that their supporters remain peaceful, respectful of others, and within the remit of the law. Any group or individual found to be violent or in any illegal act shall be brought to book," Dampare said. He emphasized further that such attitude and commitment from the police would extend throughout the election period, trying to prevent escalation of tensions.
The comments by the IGP follow growing concerns about political violence in recent years characterized by reports of clashes between supporters of different parties and incidents of intimidation during electioneering. Dampare's warning is a clear message that the police are committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for voters, candidates, and political party officials.
He added that political parties should not use violence or threats of violence since such acts only damage the electoral process's credibility and may even cause unrest. The head of the police also called on citizens to ensure their involvement in the election was peaceful, warning that the law enforcement community was ready to address any efforts to damage the democratic process.
With the 2024 election approaching, the IGP's call to action is a crucial reminder that security and respect for the rule of law must be paramount in ensuring a fair and free election for all Ghanaians.
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