The National Election Security Task Force has confirmed the deployment of military personnel to support the police in ensuring order at collation centres as the Electoral Commission (EC) resumes the collation of results for the remaining constituencies from the 7 December elections.

The decision follows criticism from the EC, which accused the task force of failing to provide adequate security during earlier stages of the collation process, leading to its suspension.

Addressing the press on Friday, 20 December, ACP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director of Public Affairs for the Ghana Police Service and spokesperson for the election security task force, highlighted the necessity of maintaining peace at the centres to ensure the smooth continuation of the process.

“The Task Force has assured the Electoral Commission of its readiness to provide the required security for the outstanding collation. Furthermore, the Commission reminded the Task Force that only individuals accredited by the Commission should be granted access to the collation centres. To this end, there will be a joint police and military deployment for the exercise,” ACP Ansah-Akrofi stated.

She appealed to political actors to avoid inciting their supporters to converge at the centres, cautioning that such actions could disrupt the process and escalate tensions.

“We wish to caution the public that non-accredited individuals will not be permitted at the centres. Additionally, the Task Force urges political parties to refrain from encouraging their supporters to gather at collation centres, as this could jeopardise the process,” she added.

ACP Ansah-Akrofi reiterated the task force’s commitment to upholding Ghana’s peace and stability throughout the election period.

“Throughout this election period, including this post-election phase, the National Election Security Task Force has prioritised Ghana’s peace and security. We remain dedicated to this mission and will continue to act in the nation’s best interests,” she affirmed.