Election 2024: Our role is limited to standby support, no military personnel will be stationed at any polling station – GAF
As Ghana prepares for its presidential and parliamentary elections on December 7, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and stability during the electoral process.
In a bid to address concerns about potential military deployment, the GAF has clarified that its role will be limited to providing standby support, with the Ghana Police Service (GPS) taking the lead in ensuring security at polling stations.
The GAF's collaborative approach with the GPS underscores its dedication to upholding the integrity of the electoral process. By only deploying military personnel upon formal request from the GPS, GAF aims to prevent any undue interference in the elections.
In a statement, GAF urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest police station or the GPS toll-free numbers, 18555 or 0800 311 311.
“As part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining national security and peace during this critical democratic exercise, GAF wishes to reiterate that no military personnel will be stationed at any polling station. GAF’s presence will be limited to standby support, with the primary responsibility for election security remaining with the Ghana Police Service (GPS).
“The military will only be deployed upon request by the GPS. This collaborative approach ensures that the
Elections proceed smoothly and peacefully while law and order are maintained.
“The military’s role, as outlined, will be limited to standby support, with the Ghana Police Service (GPS) taking the lead in ensuring security at polling stations.
“In the spirit of transparency and to prevent any misunderstandings, we encourage the public to report any
military personnel, individual(s) identifying themselves as GAF personnel or any individual(s) wearing
military-patterned attire/accoutrements found at any polling station to the nearest Police Station or call the
Following GPS toll-free numbers: 18555 or 0800 311 311. This will ensure that appropriate action is taken against such individuals or groups to maintain security as well as the integrity of the election
process
“GAF wishes to encourage all Ghanaians to exercise their civic rights responsibly, cooperate with security
personnel and refrain from any acts that could disrupt the peace. GAF reiterates its commitment to
safeguarding the stability and sovereignty of the nation whilst protecting the integrity of the election process.”
This proactive approach is designed to prevent impersonation or unauthorized appearances of individuals claiming to be military personnel.
Find the full statement from GAF below.
Source: Florence Kyei/ Lead News Online
