“Our Eyes Are Red for Akwatia” – IGP Vows Tough Security Ahead of By-Election

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has issued a strong warning to potential troublemakers, assuring the public of the Police Service’s readiness to maintain law and order during the upcoming Akwatia by-election in the Eastern Region.

Speaking after a visit by the Police Management Board (POMAB) to the High-Risk Operation Training Centre at Akyerematen on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, the IGP said officers had been adequately trained and equipped to guarantee the safety of voters, electoral officers, political parties, and the media.

“We have brought men here, and they are trained on how to handle arms. Today, they will move to Akwatia and assess all the threats. We are ready for the election, and nobody can come here to cause any trouble,” Mr. Yohuno stressed.

The by-election is scheduled for September 2, 2025, and has already drawn heightened political attention.

Political Parties Demand Firm Action

Ahead of the polls, the Ghana Police Service held a meeting with political parties on Tuesday, August 19, to review security arrangements.

The NPP’s National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, urged the police to act decisively against individuals involved in the recent electoral violence at Ablekuma North, saying unresolved incidents undermine public trust.

“We said that thugs linked to the NDC caused mayhem, their images and videos are all over, yet there have been no decisive arrests. The IGP assured us arrests would be made, but we need to see real action,” he stated.

On the other hand, the NDC called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to strengthen security by ensuring that individuals without accreditation—including former state officials—are barred from polling stations.

The party’s Deputy Director of Elections and IT, Rashid Tanko-Computer, warned against infiltration by politically aligned individuals who could incite violence.

“We are committed to peace, but mindful of our opponents’ activities. Once you don’t have accreditation, you have no business at the polling station,” he said, recalling the Ablekuma North incident where former Minister Hawa Koomson was accused of carrying pepper spray.

Security on High Alert

The IGP emphasized that all security measures would be enforced without fear or favor, stressing that the police will not allow disturbances to disrupt the democratic process in Akwatia.