The Ghana Police Service has rolled out an elaborate security framework for the inauguration of President-elect John Dramani Mahama and Vice President-elect Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, set to take place on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. The inauguration, which will be held at the Black Star Square in Accra, marks a significant moment in Ghana’s democratic journey and will be accompanied by heightened security measures to ensure the safety of all participants.
Security Zones and Restricted Areas
According to a statement released on Monday, January 6, the police have designated specific areas in Accra as security operational perimeters. These zones will be strictly monitored and include key locations such as the Ako Adjei Interchange, AU Roundabout, State House, Osu Cemetery Traffic Light, Accra Sports Stadium, and Independence (Black Star) Square.
Other critical points within the perimeter are the Ministries Traffic Light, Customs Headquarters Traffic Light area, and Gamel Abdul Nasser Avenue. Security officials will enforce strict access control, with road closures and diversions implemented to regulate human and vehicular movement.
Road Closures and Traffic Restrictions
The Ghana Police Service has announced that roads within the security perimeter will be closed to the public from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM on the day of the event. Specific roads to be affected include:
28th February Road from Customs Headquarters to Castle Road Junction.
Both sides of Lokko Street from Osu Cemetery Traffic Light to AU Roundabout.
Starlet 91 Road from Ministries Traffic Light Intersection to Accra Sports Stadium.
These closures aim to create a secure environment for the smooth execution of the inauguration.
Traffic Diversions to Ease Congestion
To minimize inconvenience, the police have outlined alternative routes for motorists:
Traffic from 28th February Road heading towards the Central Business District (CBD) will be redirected via Salem Avenue Traffic Light to Oxford Street.
Vehicles traveling from John Evans Atta Mills High Street towards Independence Square will be diverted to Liberia Road at the Customs Headquarters Traffic Light Intersection.
Motorists from Lokko Street moving towards Castle Road must use Ajumaku and Oxford Streets.
Traffic from AU Roundabout to Castle Road via Osu Cemetery Traffic Light will be rerouted through Abdul Diouf and King Hassan Roads, connecting with Gamel Abdul Nasser Road near the Ghana Institute of Journalism.
The police have urged the public to comply with these directives to ensure the event proceeds without disruptions.
Designated Parking Areas
For those attending the inauguration, specific parking spaces have been allocated to prevent congestion around the event venue. These include:
The Forecourt of the State House.
Efua Sutherland Park.
Premises of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
The police emphasized that unauthorized parking in restricted areas will not be permitted, and violators may face penalties.
Access and Public Guidelines
Only individuals with official invitations will be granted access to the inauguration grounds. Attendees are advised to arrive early and adhere to all security protocols. The statement also highlighted that pedestrians and motorists within the security perimeter should plan alternative routes to avoid inconvenience.
The police have assured the public that measures are in place to maintain order and safety throughout the event. Residents in the affected areas have been urged to cooperate fully with security personnel and follow traffic guidelines.
Security for Parliamentary Swearing-In
In addition to the presidential inauguration, the Ghana Police Service has confirmed similar security arrangements for the swearing-in of Members of Parliament-elect and the Speaker of Parliament. This event is scheduled to take place on Monday, January 6, at the Parliament House.
Ensuring a Peaceful Transition
The Ghana Police Service’s efforts to secure the inauguration underscore the importance of peaceful transitions in Ghana’s democratic process. As one of the nation’s most significant political events, the swearing-in ceremony is expected to draw local and international attention, with dignitaries and representatives from various countries in attendance.
The police have reiterated their commitment to creating a safe environment for the event and ensuring minimal disruption to residents and businesses in the capital.
Public Cooperation is Key
The success of the security plan will rely heavily on public cooperation. The Ghana Police Service has called on citizens to exercise patience and adhere to the measures put in place, emphasizing that these actions are necessary to safeguard the inauguration.
As the country prepares to usher in a new administration, the meticulous planning and execution of security arrangements demonstrate Ghana’s dedication to upholding democratic values and maintaining peace during transitions of power.
The inauguration of President-elect John Dramani Mahama and Vice President-elect Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang promises to be a historic occasion, and the Ghana Police Service is leaving no stone unturned to ensure its success.
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