CSOs, Clergy Commend Security Forces, Urge Calm Following Election Unrest

ACCRA: Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and religious leaders have expressed their approval of the National Election Security Taskforce's (NESTF) handling of post-election violence and disturbances, urging the populace to remain calm and allow security forces to perform their duties.According to Ghana News Agency, the commendations were made during a meeting with Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, the Inspector General of Police and Chairman of NESTF. The gathering involved representatives from various CSOs, including the Civic Forum Initiative, the Coalition of Domestic Election Observers, and the Centre for Democratic Development-Ghana, as well as religious groups like the Catholic Bishops' Conference and the Christian Council of Ghana.Dr. Angela Dwamena-Aboagye, Chairperson of the Civic Forum Initiative, expressed confidence in the police's capacity to handle the situation effectively, noting the reassurance provided by the IGP's strategies for addressing the violence. She emphasized the importance of mainta ining trust in the security forces and urged them to continue their efforts to de-escalate tensions.Rev. Dr. Fred Deegbe, Co-Chair of the Coalition of Domestic Election Observers, praised the professionalism of the police during and after the elections. He highlighted the police's focus on de-escalation and avoiding unnecessary loss of life, despite the challenges posed by recent disturbances.Rt. Rev. Dr. Hilliard Dogbey, Chairman of the Christian Council of Ghana, applauded the efforts of the NESTF and other security agencies, underscoring the critical nature of post-election management. He expressed gratitude for the peace maintained during the elections and called on all parties to act responsibly to preserve it.Rt. Rev. Dr. Gordon Kisseih, First Vice President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council, commended the police's non-violent approach to managing post-election disturbances. He also urged the media to focus on positive developments and reminded political leaders to honor the peace a ccord signed during the electoral process.Dr. Abubakar Mohammed Marzuq Azindoo, representing the National Chief Imam, praised the police for their transparency and rationality in responding to the violence, noting that these values have enhanced public confidence in their ability to maintain order.Dr. Kojo Asante of the Centre for Democratic Development-Ghana and CODEO, called on Ghanaians to respect the electoral process and use established procedures to address grievances, encouraging peaceful transitions and adherence to democratic principles.Assistant Commissioner of Police Grace Ansah-Akrofi provided updates on NESTF's ongoing operations to address post-election violence, including the arrest of 107 suspects and the restoration of calm in affected regions. She urged stakeholders to collaborate in preserving peace and cautioned against misinformation that could lead to public unrest.