President Akufo-Addo has urged the Police administration to reevaluate its methods for addressing post-election violence following incidents that marred the aftermath of Ghana’s December 7 elections.
While the elections were widely regarded as free and fair, the outgoing President expressed disappointment over the outbreaks of violence that followed, describing the response as inadequate, as reported by 3News.
Speaking during his final State of the Nation Address (SONA) on January 3, Akufo-Addo emphasized the need for professionalism in managing such situations.
Referring to the violence, he stated, “… we should condemn the outbreaks of violence that followed and the assumption some had, that because a presidential candidate had conceded defeat, the winning party should feel emboldened to cause mayhem.
It appeared, at one stage, that the outburst of violence would overwhelm the Police who, in my view, need to re-examine rapidly their methods for containing such incidents in the future.”
Despite these concerns, Akufo-Addo commended the Police for their effective supervision of the electoral process, clarifying, “I say so without prejudice to the excellent job they did in supervising the electoral process itself.”
Akufo-Addo also acknowledged the prompt concession by the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, noting that it should have mitigated post-election tensions rather than exacerbating them.
The President expressed optimism that future elections in Ghana could transcend unnecessary tensions, stating, “I am hoping that we would soon reach the stage where the unnecessary tensions that are simulated to accompany our elections would disappear, and elections would become simply something that we do, and do without a fuss and with flair.”
He further lauded the Electoral Commission (EC) under Jean Mensa for its efficient management of both the 2020 and 2024 elections, describing their performance as “praiseworthy” despite certain challenges.
This call for a reassessment comes as civil society and religious organizations commend Inspector General of Police (IGP) George Akuffo Dampare for his efforts in ensuring election security.
The President concluded his remarks by expressing hope for a future where elections are conducted seamlessly and devoid of violence, reflecting the maturity of Ghana’s democracy.