IGP confident in Akwatia by-election, calls it a model for future polls
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has expressed optimism about the ongoing Akwatia by-election, describing it as smooth and orderly, and a possible benchmark for future elections in Ghana.
During a visit to the constituency on Tuesday, September 2, the IGP commended both voters and security officers for maintaining calm. He told Citi News’ Charles Owusu Kumi that the Ghana Police Service is determined to ensure a peaceful process.
“Everything is going on smoothly as planned, and that is what we expect to do — to make sure that at the end of the day, we have a very smooth and peaceful election,” he said.
Yohuno also revealed that senior police officials, including all regional commanders and members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), were on the ground, working alongside field personnel.
“I am very satisfied with the performance of my men on the ground. This election is such that we have all regional commanders, all POMAB members taking part on the ground. They are all on the field and working with the personnel. Everything is going on very well,” he added.
He reassured the public that the service is committed to avoiding a repeat of past incidents of electoral violence. “Ablekuma North violence is a thing of the past. We are moving forward. As I assure you, this one will be an election that will set a tone for future elections.”
The by-election, triggered by the death of the sitting Member of Parliament, is taking place across 119 polling stations with more than 50,000 registered voters. Reports indicate a generally calm atmosphere despite a few isolated incidents.
Tensions flared earlier after an altercation between members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP). NDC National Vice Chairman, Chief Sofo Azorka, described a visit by the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, to the NDC’s local office as “provocative” and “disrespectful.”
A confrontation also broke out between NPP’s National Vice Chairman, Alhaji Osman Masawudu, and Azorka’s escort. Eyewitnesses said the incident escalated when a member of Azorka’s team allegedly slapped Masawudu, prompting police to step in and restore order. No arrests have been reported.
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