Richard Jakpa, a prominent member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) security team for the upcoming 2024 elections, detailed an extensive plan to ensure a fair and secure electoral process.
His remarks come amid rising concerns over intimidation tactics reportedly employed by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) against NDC polling agents.
In a recent interview with TV XYZ, Richard Jakpa highlighted a troubling pattern in the Ashanti Region, where NPP supporters have allegedly targeted isolated polling agents. “Over the years, we have seen instances where our agents are intimidated, mobbbed, and even coerced into abandoning their posts,” he stated.
This has led to “distorted election results, with reports of significant discrepancies in vote counts favoring the NPP”, he added.
To combat this, Jakpa emphasized that the NDC has implemented rigorous measures to identify and remove disloyal agents from their ranks.
He disclosed “we are committed to ensuring that only dedicated and loyal representatives who understand our party’s values are present at polling stations”.
In a bid to secure the electoral process, Jakpa announced that with approximately 7,100 polling stations in the Ashanti Region, he assured that all the necessary security personnels including commanders and their teams would be well-prepared to respond to any incidents.
“Our security arrangements are thorough; we know exactly who is stationed where,” Jakpa explained.
He also noted that influential party members would be present to provide additional support and oversight during the election.
Jakpa urged voters not to succumb to fear amid reports of intimidation. “This time around, there will be significant security presence,” he reassured.
He encouraged citizens to remain at polling stations after voting concludes, advising them to return by 4 PM if they leave. “If they witness any commotion or irregularities, they should rally together to support our polling agents,” he urged. Jakpa underscored the importance of maintaining order at polling sites.
He warned against unauthorized personnel attempting to interfere with the voting process, stating that security services entities like the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) would not be allowed within the inner perimeter of polling stations. “We will not hesitate to take action if necessary,” he declared.
Source: www.kumasimail.com / Kwadwo Owusu
