IGP Issues Stern Caution as Akwatia By-Election Draws Near

The Inspector General of Police, Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has warned against electoral violence. He addressed this issue as preparations continue for the Akwatia by-election.

Mr. Yohuno spoke at the 17th Regional Commanders’ Conference in Accra on July 18, 2025. He announced that a technical team will oversee security operations for the election. Anyone guilty of electoral offences will face prosecution, regardless of their status.

“The Ghana Police Service does not support violence during elections,” he stated. “We are reviewing footage from recent elections to hold wrongdoers accountable.”

The Akwatia by-election was prompted by the death of MP Ernest Yaw Kumi. Parliament declared the seat vacant on July 17, 2025. This allowed the Electoral Commission to start arrangements for a replacement election.

Mr. Yohuno’s comments follow recent violence in Ablekuma North’s parliamentary rerun. During that election, former MPs Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie and Hawa Koomson were assaulted at polling stations. The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) condemned these acts as intimidation against voters and candidates.

“These incidents are unacceptable,” Mr. Yohuno said firmly. “We learned lessons from Ablekuma North and will not tolerate misconduct in Akwatia.”

He also addressed police conduct issues within his service. An officer accused of assault has been referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau for formal charges. “No officer is above the law,” he emphasized.

The Police Administration is implementing reforms to improve public safety and trust in the service. These include digitized operations and upgraded intelligence structures.

Mr. Yohuno urged the public to assist police by sharing credible information during elections. He called on other security agencies, judiciary members, and civil society organizations to collaborate for peace throughout the electoral process.

The Regional Commanders’ Conference gathered senior police officers from all regions to discuss operational performance and national security concerns related to upcoming elections.