Don’t Send Any Soldiers Or Guns To The Polling Stations – Mahama Tells Gov’t

John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, has highlighted the importance of impartiality and justice as Ghana approaches the December 7 general elections. Speaking at the launch of the National Peace Campaign, Mahama called for strict legal action against anyone attempting to incite violence or disrupt the electoral process, emphasizing the need for a fair and peaceful election.

Mahama underscored the critical roles of the Electoral Commission (EC), judiciary, and security forces in ensuring that the elections are conducted transparently, safely, and fairly. Expressing concern about potential violence, he urged these institutions to uphold justice and neutrality, which he sees as essential for a credible election outcome.

He also voiced opposition to the deployment of military personnel or armed national security operatives to polling stations, arguing that their presence could create an atmosphere of fear and distrust among voters. Mahama appealed to the government to respect the specific roles assigned to each security institution to avoid unnecessary tensions.

Addressing the role of the EC, Mahama stressed that maintaining neutrality is crucial to building public confidence in the electoral process. He called on the Commission to act impartially, ensuring that all stakeholders view the electoral process as fair.

Mahama also emphasized the judiciary’s responsibility in handling any election-related disputes. He pointed out that while disagreements are inevitable in any democratic process, they must be resolved fairly and without bias.

“Our clergy, like all citizens, should be able to witness voting and counting peacefully without fearing violence,” Mahama stated. “Anyone causing disruptions during the election must face justice. The government must ensure that any criminal masquerading as a state security operative is held accountable.”

He further insisted that weapons should be prohibited at polling stations and collation centers, reiterating that election security is the responsibility of the Ghana Police Service under the Inspector General of Police. Mahama concluded by urging against the deployment of military forces at polling stations, reaffirming that the EC’s impartiality and the judiciary’s neutrality are essential for a fair and peaceful election.

Source: GhanaFeed.Com