The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have sent 700 soldiers to Kumasi as part of efforts to maintain security during the upcoming general elections scheduled for Saturday, December 7, 2024. This major operation included personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force and was carried out to ensure peace and order during this critical time.
The troops began their journey in the early hours of December 5, with some leaving Accra as early as 5 a.m. This deployment is aimed at preventing violence, maintaining law and order, and ensuring that every voter feels safe as they head to the polls.
Kumasi, located in the Ashanti Region, is under the Central Command of the Ghana Armed Forces. Brigadier General Michael Opoku, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of this command, is in charge of overseeing the troops’ activities in the area. General Opoku is known for his controversial role during the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election, where masked National Security operatives shot and injured several civilians.
The Ashanti Region is considered one of the most crucial areas in Ghana’s electoral map. Political parties heavily contest this region, and there are growing concerns about potential security threats. The deployment of troops is meant to send a strong message against violence and ensure the elections are free and fair.
On Saturday, December 7, soldiers will be stationed at various strategic points across Kumasi, including polling centers. Their primary role will be to assist in keeping the peace and supporting the smooth conduct of the elections. However, they will not directly interfere with the voting process.
The Ghana Armed Forces have assured citizens that they are committed to neutrality and democracy. They want the public to know that their presence is purely to protect lives and property, not to intimidate voters. Despite these assurances, some Ghanaians remain doubtful. Concerns have been raised about the activities of some military leaders, including Major General Bismark Kwasi Onwona and Major General Joseph Aphour, who are allegedly deploying snipers to opposition strongholds.
In response to these concerns, the Military High Command has taken significant steps to reassure citizens. They have banned soldiers from directly accessing polling stations across the country. This decision aims to eliminate any fear or intimidation that voters may feel due to the presence of military personnel.
A statement from Brigadier General Emmanuel Aggrey-Quashie, the Director of General Public Relations for the Ghana Armed Forces, urged all Ghanaians to exercise their voting rights peacefully. He encouraged citizens to avoid any actions that could disrupt the elections and to cooperate fully with security personnel.
The Military High Command has also provided toll-free emergency numbers—18555 and 0800 311 311. Citizens are urged to use these lines to report any suspicious activities involving individuals dressed as soldiers or wearing military uniforms at polling stations. This measure is part of efforts to uphold transparency and protect the integrity of the elections.
Meanwhile, the National Elections Security Task Force, led by the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has also called on the public to remain calm and peaceful during the elections. The task force has been working closely with the Electoral Commission and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth electoral process.
The Electoral Commission has emphasized the importance of a violence-free election and called on all political parties to educate their supporters about the need to prioritize peace. Political leaders have also been encouraged to avoid inflammatory language that could incite violence.
Security arrangements across Ghana have been intensified in anticipation of Saturday’s polls. Police, military, and other security agencies are working together to monitor hotspots and respond swiftly to any disturbances. The government and security agencies are determined to create an environment where voters feel confident to cast their ballots without fear.
This deployment of troops to Kumasi highlights the significance of maintaining peace in a region that often plays a decisive role in Ghana’s elections. While some citizens welcome the military’s presence as a protective measure, others worry about the possibility of abuse or bias.
As the elections draw near, all eyes will be on the security agencies to uphold their promise of neutrality. The peaceful outcome of the elections will depend on their professionalism and commitment to the democratic process.
Ghanaians are encouraged to head to the polls peacefully, confident that measures are in place to ensure their safety. The actions taken by the Ghana Armed Forces, the police, and other stakeholders reflect a collective effort to protect the nation’s democracy.
The hope is that these elections will showcase Ghana’s ability to conduct peaceful and transparent polls, even in the face of challenges. All citizens are urged to play their part in maintaining the country’s peace and stability.
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