The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has voiced full confidence in the nation’s security arrangements ahead of the Akwatia by-election, calling for restraint and urging all political stakeholders to adhere to established electoral protocols.
In an interview with Channel One Newsroom on Tuesday, Rashid Sofo Tanko-Computer, Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the NDC, said the party is satisfied with a security briefing it received from the Ghana Police Service. He emphasized that the NDC will not be deploying any parallel security structures, a position that contrasts with recent statements from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
“We are satisfied with the briefing that the security gave us today,” Tanko said. “The setup they put out there clearly shows that they want to protect lives and property at Akwatia.”
The remarks come in response to comments made by NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye, who told Citi Eyewitness News that his party intends to implement internal security mechanisms during the September 2 vote. The NPP cited dissatisfaction with security during the recent Ablekuma North election rerun, which was marred by reports of violence.
While the NPP has maintained that its self-protection measures are both lawful and non-violent, Tanko cautioned that such actions could escalate tensions unnecessarily.
“My brothers and sisters in the NPP must be clear to themselves — it takes two to tango,” Tanko said. “When you have a predetermined mind that ‘I am coming to do so and so,’ then expect a reprisal from your action.”
He added that the NDC had observed the conduct of state security during previous by-elections in Kumawu and Assin North and found them largely professional, except for what he described as a lapse in Ablekuma North. Nevertheless, Tanko urged political actors to place trust in state institutions and avoid duplicative or provocative security arrangements.
The Akwatia by-election is expected to be a closely watched contest, with both major parties seeking to consolidate their electoral strength ahead of Ghana’s 2026 general elections.
