Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno has committed to ensuring the upcoming Akwatia parliamentary by-election becomes one of Ghana’s most peaceful and successful electoral contests, as security preparations intensify ahead of the September 2, 2025 polls.
Speaking during a crucial stakeholders meeting with political parties at the Police Headquarters in Accra, the IGP outlined comprehensive security measures designed to prevent any form of electoral violence or misconduct during the by-election process.
The discussions focused on security arrangements, operational modalities for the by-election, and the Electoral Commission’s roadmap for the polls.
The by-election was necessitated following the death of the New Patriotic Party Member of Parliament Ernest Yaw Kumi in July 2025, creating a parliamentary vacancy that requires immediate filling During Tuesday’s session, the IGP assured political parties of the Police Service’s readiness to maintain peace and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
IGP Yohuno’s commitment comes against the backdrop of recent electoral violence that marred the Ablekuma North parliamentary re-election, which has heightened public concerns about election security in Ghana.
According to the IGP, video footage from the scene is currently under careful review to identify those responsible for the disruptions, demonstrating the police service’s determination to hold perpetrators accountable.
The Police Service has adopted a proactive approach to election security, drawing lessons from successful peacekeeping operations in previous by-elections.
IGP Yohuno has proven himself to be a formidable force against cross-border crimes and promises to replicate the strategy used in Assin North in Akwatia as well, indicating that tested security frameworks will be deployed for the upcoming polls.
Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak has also emphasized the importance of adequate preparation for the Akwatia by-election, directing the Ghana Police Service to establish comprehensive security protocol The Interior Minister has called on the Ghana Police Service to ensure a peaceful Akwatia by-election through adequate preparation.
The Inspector General of Police has cautioned against electoral violence and misconduct within the police service as preparations continue for the upcoming by-election in Akwatia, signaling zero tolerance for any form of security lapses or unprofessional conduct during the electoral process.
The stakes are particularly high for this by-election, with political parties and civil society organizations closely monitoring the police service’s performance.
The National Democratic Congress has selected 40-year-old lawyer Bernard Bediako Baidoo as their candidate, while the New Patriotic Party has chosen Solomon Kwame Asumadu to contest the seat.
District Chief Executive for Denkyembour Ahmed Omar Tutu has also provided additional reassurance, stating that there would be absolute peace before, during, and after the September 2, 2025, by-electionAkwatia in the Eastern Region.
The Electoral Commission has already begun logistical preparations, with ballot paper printing scheduled to commence on August 20, 2025.
This coordinated effort between the police, electoral commission, and local authorities demonstrates the multi-institutional commitment to delivering a credible and peaceful electoral process.
IGP Yohuno’s pledge represents more than just routine election security assurance; it embodies a strategic vision to restore public confidence in Ghana’s electoral system and demonstrate the police service’s capacity to maintain order during critical democratic processes.
Story Written By rince Asante Kwarteng | Kobby Kyei News
