Election Watch Ghana (EWG), a pro-democracy organization, has voiced worries regarding the extent of security arrangements for the forthcoming by-election in the Akwatia Constituency on Tuesday, September 2.
The group stated that the significant security presence could deter people from voting, thereby jeopardizing Ghana’s democratic process.
“While we understand the importance of maintaining law and order, we strongly believe that this approach may inadvertently contribute to low voter turnout and undermine the electoral process,” EWG stated on Tuesday, August 26.
The group observed that the use of “inflammatory rhetoric employed by some politicians prior to the polls” often incites violence during by-elections. It noted that victims of this type of violence are “often targeted by mainstream politicians rather than grassroots party loyalists in the constituency.”
Among its recommendations, EWG urged for rigorous compliance with accreditation protocols, comprehensive security screening, and a ban on unauthorized groups at polling centers.
“By adhering strictly to these rules, we can ensure a violence-free by-election that truly represents the will of the people of Akwatia. Elections are a celebration of democracy and a contest of ideas, not a battleground,” the group emphasized.
EWG additionally called on all parties involved, especially the Electoral Commission, to place the integrity and credibility of the electoral process at the forefront.
“We call for a return to the principles of democracy, where elections are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner,” the group declared, noting that the Akwatia by-election should mark a pivotal moment in Ghana’s electoral history.
Source: newsthemegh.com