KAIPTC Held Symposium on Security Ahead of Ghana’s 2024 General Elections
The KAIPTC hosted a high-level symposium under the theme “Protecting the Ballot, Deepening Democracy” as part of its Reflections on Security Series. The timely event provided a platform for critical discussions on the security dynamics surrounding Ghana’s upcoming general elections, slated for December 7, 2024.
In his opening remarks, the Commandant of KAIPTC, Major General Richard Addo Gyane, emphasized the significance of the symposium, describing it as a crucial initiative at a pivotal time in Ghana’s democratic journey.
“Issues related to state security are not solely about the actions of security forces but require a collective resolve by the entire population to prioritize peace, regardless of electoral outcomes,” he noted.
The Commandant expressed optimism that the forum would deepen understanding of the preparedness of critical institutions before, during, and after the elections, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts to ensure a peaceful process.
Moderated by Dr. Kweku Danso, Dean of the Faculty of Academic Affairs at KAIPTC, the panel discussion delved into five key issues:
- The roles of critical actors, such as the Electoral Commission (EC) and the Ghana Police Service, in ensuring peaceful elections.
- Public engagement initiatives by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE).
- The preparedness of the Election Security Task Force to prevent violence.
- Challenges faced by the EC and security agencies and their potential impact on the elections.
- Opportunities for strengthening Ghana’s democratic consolidation amid these challenges.
The panel featured a distinguished lineup of experts, including Dr. Serebuor Quiacoe, Director of Training, EC Ghana; ACP Al-Meyao Abass Kwarasey, Director of Operations, Police Headquarters, Accra; Rev. Dr. Fred Degbe, Co-Chair, Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO); Lawyer Victor Brobbey, Deputy Chairman, NCCE; and Mr. Serigne Mamadou Ka, Acting Head, Electoral Assistance Division, ECOWAS.
The symposium underscored the critical role of stakeholders—security agencies, civil society, election observers, and the public—in safeguarding Ghana’s democratic credentials.
The event brought together participants from Ghana’s security services, civil society organizations, the media, academia, diplomatic corps, and students, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to election security.
As Ghana approaches its ninth general election under the Fourth Republic, KAIPTC’s initiative reinforces its commitment to fostering peace and security in the region.
