The Ghana Police Service in the Volta Region has issued a strong warning to politicians, political party supporters, and election agents against engaging in voter intimidation, threats, or vote buying during elections.
The caution was delivered by ACP Mrs. Brown Mercy Wilson, Head of Legal and Prosecution for the Ghana Police Service in the Volta Region, during the Volta Regional edition of the “Democracy Is Not For Sale” forum held in Ho.
ACP Wilson stressed that every Ghanaian has the constitutional right to vote freely without fear, coercion, or intimidation. She urged residents who experience threats or pressure during any electoral process to report such incidents directly to the police for immediate action.
According to her, individuals found guilty of threatening or intimidating voters could face severe legal consequences under Ghanaian law. She noted that election-related violence, intimidation, and coercion have no place in a democratic society and warned that law enforcement agencies would not hesitate to prosecute offenders.
Vote Buying Described as a Serious Electoral Offence
The senior police officer also cautioned politicians against distributing money, food, gifts, or other items that could influence voters’ decisions during election periods.
She explained that offering inducements to voters undermines the credibility of Ghana’s democratic process and could constitute an electoral offence. ACP Wilson called on political parties to campaign on policies and ideas rather than using financial incentives to win support.
Citizens Encouraged to Report Electoral Misconduct
Participants at the forum were encouraged to remain vigilant and report any incidents of voter intimidation, electoral violence, or suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
The forum forms part of the nationwide “Democracy Is Not For Sale” campaign, which seeks to promote free, fair, and transparent elections while discouraging vote buying and political violence across Ghana.
Security officials reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace before, during, and after elections, assuring residents that the police will work with stakeholders to protect the integrity of the electoral process.
Protecting Ghana’s Democracy
The Ghana Police Service reiterated that safeguarding democracy is a shared responsibility and urged all political actors to respect the rule of law.
Authorities believe that peaceful elections can only be achieved when citizens are allowed to vote freely without intimidation, threats, or undue influence.
Source: Statements made during the Democracy Is Not For Sale forum in Ho and reports from JoyNews on the event.
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