Dr. Benjamin Agordzo, Head of Police Planning at the United Nations Justice Reform Support Mission, ACP, has expressed concerns over the preparedness of the current police administration in Ghana and of the National Election Security Task Force (NESTF) ahead of the December 7 elections.

Speaking to a GIMPA law student association Peace through democracy On Wednesday, he described the task force as “untried and untested” for a national election.

“As far as I am concerned, this police administration and the NESTF are untested when it comes to national elections,” he said.

While acknowledging recent successes, such as the Assin North by-election, Dr Agordzo warned that national elections pose an entirely different challenge.

“We cannot assume that the strategies used in the by-elections will work on a large scale. We must prepare rigorously,” he said.

He also criticized the lack of regular communication from the NESTF. “The IGP alone cannot shoulder the burden of public communication.

“Regional and district commanders must also step in to engage the media and communities,” he advised.

Reflecting on past successes, Dr Agordzo highlighted the importance of stakeholder engagement and building trust.

“In 2016, we involved all stakeholders – political parties, youth groups, religious bodies, etc. – well in advance. This built confidence and clarified expectations. Are we doing the same thing now? » he questioned.

He further called for a review of the Representation of the People Act, particularly Section 42, which requires the consent of the Attorney General for election-related prosecutions.

“This law perpetuates impunity because the attorney general is unlikely to prosecute his own citizens. This must change,” he argued.

Dr. Agordzo concluded with a stern warning about public opinion.

“This time, citizens are more aware and ready to face threats. If we do not prepare properly, the consequences could be disastrous,” he warned.

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