LOCAL NEWS
Government Had No Role in 2024 Election Security; Hold IGP Accountable – Defense Minister to Speaker

In a recent address to Parliament, the Defense Minister made a firm declaration that the government had no direct involvement in managing security during the 2024 elections. Instead, he emphasized that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) should be held accountable for all matters concerning election security. This statement came in response to concerns raised by the Speaker of Parliament over alleged lapses and controversies surrounding the conduct of security agencies during the elections.
The Defense Minister clarified that election security operations fell solely under the jurisdiction of the Ghana Police Service, led by the IGP. According to him, the government deliberately maintained a hands-off approach to ensure neutrality and fairness in the electoral process.
“The government’s role was to provide the necessary resources and support. Operational decisions, deployments, and strategies were entirely the responsibility of the IGP and his team,” the Minister stated.
The Speaker of Parliament had earlier raised questions about the integrity and preparedness of security agencies during the elections. He expressed worries about reported incidents of violence, intimidation, and alleged misconduct by some security personnel. These concerns prompted a broader discussion on accountability and the role of leadership in ensuring free, fair, and peaceful elections.
The Defense Minister’s remarks shift attention to the Inspector General of Police as the central figure responsible for addressing any electoral security issues. The IGP, who oversees the planning and execution of security measures, is expected to respond to the concerns raised and provide a detailed account of how election security was handled.
The Minister’s statement has sparked mixed reactions among the public and political commentators. While some agree with the government’s decision to distance itself from operational security matters, others argue that ultimate accountability still lies with the ruling administration.
Critics have questioned whether the government’s “hands-off” approach was a genuine effort to ensure neutrality or a way to deflect responsibility in the face of electoral challenges. Supporters, however, believe that the move strengthened democratic processes by empowering the police service to act independently.
As discussions continue, the focus remains on the need for a transparent investigation into any lapses that occurred during the elections. Ensuring accountability, improving future election security strategies, and fostering public trust in security institutions will be key priorities moving forward.
The IGP is expected to appear before Parliament in the coming weeks to address these concerns and outline the measures taken to manage security during the 2024 elections.