The Director of Communications of the New Patriotic Party, Richard Ahiagbah, is raising fresh concerns about electoral violence in Ghana’s by-elections.
He says recent clashes during the Ablekuma North by-election show the Ghana Police Service is struggling to maintain law and order. Mr. Ahiagbah points out that, despite clear video evidence of the perpetrators, the police have only arrested eight people. He insists more individuals were involved.
According to him, the arrests remain faceless and nameless. The suspects were quickly granted bail, and the police have yet to show significant progress in bringing the real perpetrators to justice.
He warned that Ghana continues to record troubling incidents of electoral violence.
” Between November and December 2024 alone, there were 76 reported cases, including injuries, property destruction, and even deaths”.
Mr. Ahiagbah urged the police to tighten security at electoral centers, act proactively to stop violence, and ensure accountability. He also wants local conflict resolution committees set up to mediate disputes before they turn violent.
He added that educating the public on peaceful participation remains critical, stressing that media partnerships and community meetings can help reduce tensions.
Richard Ahiagbah noted that although the police have received training on managing electoral violence, they must go further to tackle the root causes and end impunity.
