Preventing Armed Violence in Ghana’s 2024 General Elections.

Accra: After gaining independence on March 6, 1957, Ghana has become known for its stable democracy, which many African states strive to emulate. The country, often referred to as the Gateway to Africa, has held successful elections without experiencing a major civil war. Although Ghana has faced some armed violence related to unconstitutional takeovers post-independence, it has remained relatively stable, with successive governments peacefully transitioning power.According to Ghana News Agency, Ghana's elections have always attracted significant interest both locally and internationally. The upcoming election on December 7, 2024, will be the country's ninth since transitioning to multiparty democracy in 1992. Despite past elections being described as peaceful, the 2020 elections were marked by violence that claimed eight lives and injured several others. This article aims to highlight potential security threats that could undermine Ghana's democracy in the 2024 general elections, emphasizing the roles of s takeholders, particularly election management bodies.The 2024 election presents a critical moment in Ghana's political landscape. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate will make a third attempt at the presidency following two unsuccessful bids in 2016 and 2020, while the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer will make their first attempt. The NDC hopes to return to power after two NPP terms, while the NPP seeks to break the eight-year rule cycle. The candidates, John Dramani Mahama of the NDC and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP, hail from the Savannah and Northern regions, respectively.The death of Akua Donkor, the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP) presidential candidate, temporarily halted the printing of presidential ballots. According to Article 50 (4) of the 1992 constitution, the affected party is required to provide a replacement within ten days for the Electoral Commission (EC) to continue the process. Philip Kwabena Agyemang replaced Akua Donkor, but the EC disqualified him for failing to meet e lectoral standards.The EC opened nominations from September 9 to 13, with 24 applicants submitting forms for the presidential elections. Parliamentary candidate nominations have also been completed, with notices of polls posted in all constituencies. The EC has assured stakeholders of addressing errors in the provisional voter's register, following the NDC's demand for a forensic audit. The voter register was re-exhibited online from October 15 to 19, 2024.Initially, 13 presidential candidates were set to contest the elections, but following the demise and disqualification of the GFP candidates, 12 candidates remain. The EC has identified errors in ballot papers in Volta and other areas, which will be corrected. Ballot papers have been dispatched to constituencies under strict watch, with some under police custody and others with serial number errors destroyed.The question remains whether the NPP and NDC will seek redress at the Supreme Court if disputes arise. In 2012, the NPP petitioned the Supreme Co urt over election results, with the verdict favoring the NDC. In 2020, the NDC petitioned the court, but the ruling favored the NPP. John Dramani Mahama has indicated that the NDC will not tolerate election irregularities warranting a petition this time. The NPP has stated its intent to retain power, raising uncertainty about the outcome if either party refuses to accept defeat.Security threats loom over Ghana's 2024 elections. Digital technology and social media present both opportunities and threats to peace. Misinformation and disinformation threaten national stability, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Nigerian presidential elections. To combat this, stakeholders must ensure fact-checking and collaborate closely to address these threats.Artificial Intelligence (AI) poses another security risk if used negatively. Public education on AI's dangers is crucial, and security agencies must acquire advanced technology to counter potential threats. The EC has faced criticism for its perceived lack o f transparency, particularly regarding the voter's register. Concerns have been raised about the appointment of alleged party loyalists as Electoral Officials, potentially compromising election transparency.Violent ethnic conflicts, such as the Bawku conflict, remain a challenge. Security agencies must implement robust early warning systems and deploy personnel to ensure safe voting. To maintain peace, politicians should be barred from constituencies on election day, and heavy police and military presence should be ensured.False declarations of results by candidates pose a risk to peace. The Election Security Task Force (ESTF) must caution candidates against declaring themselves winners before the EC announces official results. Security services must remain neutral and enforce the rule of law during elections. Vigilante groups should be promptly addressed, and border towns should be secured to prevent illegal weapons from entering the country.Sensational media reporting can exacerbate tensions. Media ou tlets must fact-check information before dissemination, and those promoting hate speech or misinformation should face sanctions. The National Media Commission (NMC) should monitor media activities closely to prevent incitement.The proliferation of small arms and light weapons threatens electoral integrity. Border security must be enhanced, and an embargo on weapon imports during elections should be considered. Seized weapons, such as the 53 illegally imported firearms intercepted by Customs, highlight the need for vigilance.In conclusion, Ghana's democracy must be protected, and stakeholders must work together to ensure a peaceful electoral process. By addressing potential threats and fostering collaboration, Ghana can continue to set an example for democratic governance in Africa.