Care Ghana Criticizes Election Security Lapses in 2024

Care for Free and Fair Elections Ghana (“CARE” GHANA) has called for urgent reforms in the Ghana Police Service following its observations of significant lapses during the 2024 general elections. Addressing the press at the International Press Center on January 8, 2025, the Executive Director, David Kumi Addo, highlighted the shortcomings of the Election Security Task Force, chaired by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.

While commending the IGP for his directive to limit military involvement in elections, CARE Ghana criticized his inability to enforce the directive, which led to violent clashes, intimidation, and illegal arrests by military personnel. These incidents disrupted the electoral process and eroded public confidence in the security apparatus.

CARE Ghana also condemned the police’s involvement in supervising an unlawful re-collation of election results without a court order, calling it a violation of electoral laws and a threat to democracy. The organization questioned the IGP’s leadership and the role of the Ghana Police Service in ensuring the credibility of elections.

The report further noted incidents of violence, vote-buying, and the inability of security agencies to address electoral crimes effectively. CARE Ghana called for structural reforms in the police service, the adoption of non-partisan leadership, and stricter measures to combat vote-buying and electoral malpractices.

In its recommendations, CARE Ghana urged enhanced collaboration between security agencies, respect for judicial processes, and the strengthening of the Election Security Task Force to prevent future electoral disruptions.

David Kumi Addo concluded by emphasizing the importance of safeguarding Ghana’s democracy through credible and peaceful elections, urging citizens to remain vigilant and committed to democratic values.

Source: dailydemocratnewsonline.com