Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has assured the people of Akwatia of a peaceful and incident-free by-election, drawing on lessons from the recent unrest during the Ablekuma North rerun to enhance security preparedness.
Speaking at the Jubilee House on Monday, July 14, during the Government Accountability Series, the Minister described the violence at just 19 polling centres in Ablekuma North as deeply concerning, but also a crucial moment for reflection and reform.
“I know the challenge people will say is, coming events cast their shadow if we can go to only 19 polling stations and this happens, what will happen when we go to some of the rural places,” he said.
He continued, “Well, the interesting thing is that I’m sure this serves as a wake-up call for our security agencies. Whether what happened was organised or spontaneous, it presents an opportunity for them to plan better and prepare more effectively for the Akwatia by-election.”
Reassuring residents of Akwatia, Hon. Muntaka stated, “All I can assure the people of Akwatia is that we will use Ablekuma North as a case study to review how we will operate in Akwatia to make sure that the citizens are free to cast their votes and express their will without fear.”
He also reminded political stakeholders of the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019, stressing its implications.
“Section 6 of the Act says that a political party shall not directly or indirectly form, organise, operate or engage or facilitate the formation, organisation, operation or activity of a vigilante group whether belonging to that political party or any other political party.
“A political party that contravenes section 1 commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of not less than 10,000 penalty units and not more than 25,000 penalty units….”
Issuing a stern caution, he said, “I want to remind all of us, including myself, that if anybody organises this, this is what awaits you.” The Minister expressed strong confidence in the Inspector General of Police, affirming his trust in the IGP’s impartiality and professionalism.
“I believe in the professionalism of the IGP, that he is not going to spare any person and he can have my full support. And I am sure I also have the full support of the President that he must let the law guard anybody. Whether that person is a Muntaka or that person is for NPP or NDC, he must make the person face the law.”
He concluded by pledging a secure and calm electoral process in Akwatia.
“”So that we can assure you, we will do our best and ensure that Akwatia is safer and the election will be more peaceful, he added
The upcoming by-election in Akwatia follows the unfortunate passing of the sitting Member of Parliament, Ernest Kumi. His passing has left a vacancy in the constituency, prompting the Electoral Commission to initiate a by-election in line with Ghana’s electoral regulations.
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