Africa-Press – Ghana. Mr. Adib Saani, Executive Director of the Jatikay Centre for Human Security and Peace Building, has described violence during the Ablekuma North Constituency rerun as signs of unresolved democratic challenges.
He said although security personnel were generally present, incidents at a few polling stations undermined the credibility of the otherwise lawful process and should not be dismissed.
“Even though most polling stations were peaceful, the few violent scenes have become the unfortunate highlight of the election,” he told the Ghana News Agency.
Mr. Saani said the events were not unexpected, citing Ghana’s history of unchecked political violence and impunity.
“What we saw was not just about Ablekuma North; it’s a result of years of lawlessness, abuse of power, and a growing appetite for revenge among citizens who feel the system has failed them,” he said.
The rerun, held at 19 polling stations on July 12, 2025, was disrupted by incidents including physical assault, pepper spray use, and confrontations involving alleged party vigilantes.
At one location, EIB Network reporter Mr. Banahene Agyekum was allegedly slapped by a police officer, resulting in facial injuries and blurry vision.
Other journalists and voters were affected by tear gas fired at a polling station gate.
Mr. Saani, also a security analyst, condemned the attacks on journalists as “unacceptable.”
“The media is there to observe and report—not to be attacked,” he emphasised.
He called for an independent investigation to determine whether the violence was spontaneous or politically orchestrated.
Mr. Saani urged security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible.
“If these are party-affiliated groups acting under institutional protection, the law must be enforced equally,” he said.
Mr. Saani expressed concern over low voter turnout, attributing it to fear and public apathy.
“People don’t want to risk their lives for something that won’t give them immediate benefits. This is a major threat to participatory democracy,” he said, warning that continued violence could deter investment and damage Ghana’s democratic reputation.
Ahead of the Akwatia by-election, following the death of Member of Parliament, Mr. Ernest Kumi, he called for reforms to improve electoral security.
“We need to keep non-essential individuals away from polling stations. Even though I condemn the violence meted out to Hawa Koomson, I think she shouldn’t have been there in the first place, let alone carry pepper spray. What was her role there?” he asked.
He recommended increased security presence, stronger political engagement, and proactive communication to reduce tensions.
Mr. Saani also stressed the role of civil society, the Electoral Commission, and the media in promoting peaceful elections.
He cautioned against inflammatory social media rhetoric.
“Yes, there is freedom of expression, but it comes with responsibility. We must educate people about the consequences of their words,” he said.
Source: Ghana News Agency
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