IGP Swears, CARE Ghana Rallies, NPP Swears Self-Defense.
As the race to the September 2, 2025, Akwatia by-election heats up, a sharp focus on security and tranquility has gripped political players, civil society, and government bodies.
Amid mounting tensions and apprehensions of unrest, the Ghana Police Service, Care for Free and Fair Elections Ghana (“CARE” Ghana), and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have stepped up with promises to safeguard democracy and uphold a serene electoral process.
In a bold reassurance, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, vowed that the Police Service is primed to establish a safe haven before, during, and after the polls.
Touring the High-Risk Operation Training Centre at Akyerematen on Wednesday, August 20, the IGP underlined the force’s solid readiness for the by-election, noting substantial preparedness and constant drills for the task at hand.
“Our officers are now on the ground in Akwatia, assessing all possible risks to ensure a safe environment for the voting exercise. We are dedicated to safeguarding voters, party members, and the media for a transparent election,” the IGP declared.
Joining the chorus for peace, civil society advocate CARE Ghana, spearheaded by Executive Director David Kumi Addo, issued a stern warning regarding emerging threats pervading the Akwatia campaign.
CARE Ghana implored the Police Service to elevate the by-election’s security to a national security posture, urging stringent preventative measures against violence and disorder.
Highlighting a series of strategic recommendations, the group pressed for heightened security presence in volatile spots, enhanced intel sharing, collaboration among stakeholders, and swift action against any provocateurs of chaos.
“The people of Akwatia must exercise their voting rights in a safe, coercion-free atmosphere. Security agencies must act decisively to maintain faith in Ghana’s democratic process,” CARE Ghana demanded.
Meanwhile, the NPP opposition has vowed to take legal measures to shield its members during the election.
NPP National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, alias Nana B, cited recent attacks on party faithful in past by-elections as impetus for the party’s augmented security coverage in tandem with police arrangements.
“For self-defense, it’s within our rights. Defense is essential for self-preservation,” Nana B affirmed in an interview with Joy FM.
While assuring legal boundaries for their protective actions, he backed the Police Service’s decision against military presence in Akwatia, asserting, “We advocate for police presence only.”
With the by-election just weeks away, Akwatia has taken prime spotlight. While the IGP stands resolute, CARE Ghana sounds the alarm, and the NPP prioritizes self-defense, one unanimous plea resonates — Ghanaians call for a serene vote.
As the day of reckoning approaches, the promise of peace remains a question mark. Akwatia beckons with anticipation, and rest assured, The New Republic will unveil all in-depth updates