We’ll deal with soldiers who meddle in Akwatia by-election as thugs – NPP

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has issued a serious alert prior to the forthcoming Akwatia by-election, promising to classify any military involvement in the voting process as misconduct.

In a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, August 27, Richard Ahiagbah, the party’s Communications Director, accused the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) of scheming to enlist national security personnel to threaten voters and disturb the electoral event.

Ahiagbah mentioned that the NPP has obtained reliable information suggesting that the NDC intends to “operate under the pretense of national security to intimidate certain locals and voters in Akwatia.”

He pointed out that the Ghana Police Service has pledged to deploy 5,000 officers for the by-election, and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) has asserted that the police do not need military assistance to uphold peace and order.

Nevertheless, Ahiagbah asserted that Richard Jakpa, who was recently designated as the Director of Operations at the National Security Secretariat, has been spotted traversing the Akwatia constituency accompanied by soldiers, reportedly making threats to the community.

“Richard Jakpa has been seen roaming Akwatia with armed personnel, warning some locals that it would be advisable for them to vacate the town before the election,” he stated.

Ahiagbah cautioned that any military personnel who engage in the election process will face severe criticism and repercussions.

“We wish to emphasize that any member of the military involved in the Akwatia by-election will be treated as a thug,” he proclaimed.

The NPP urged President John Dramani Mahama, as the Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, to take immediate action against Mr. Jakpa and ensure the military does not interfere in the upcoming by-election.

“We appeal to the President, who is responsible for national security, to rein in Richard Jakpa and guarantee that no soldiers interfere with the Akwatia by-election,” Ahiagbah expressed.

The Akwatia by-election, set for Tuesday, September 2, has turned into a significant national event, with increasing tensions between the primary political parties. Both the NPP and NDC have accused one another of using intimidation tactics as the election date approaches in this traditionally competitive region.

Mustapha Gbande, the Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has warned that any violent actions during the impending Akwatia by-election will face vigorous opposition, emphasizing that the party will not permit intimidation to threaten democratic practices.