The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has clarified that no military personnel will be stationed at polling stations during the upcoming 2024 general elections.
GAF stated that the military’s role will be limited to standby support and will only be deployed upon a formal request from the Ghana Police Service (GPS) for additional security reinforcements.
In a statement, GAF emphasized that the primary responsibility for election security will remain with the Ghana Police Service, and the military’s presence will be as a backup if necessary. This collaborative approach aims to ensure a smooth and peaceful election while maintaining law and order.
GAF further urged the public to report any individuals impersonating military personnel or wearing military-patterned clothing at polling stations. The public is advised to contact the nearest police station or call the GPS toll-free numbers—18555 or 0800 311 311—if they encounter such situations. This measure is to preserve the integrity of the election process and ensure proper security during the voting.
Special Voting for 2024 Elections: Update on Regions and Procedures
In parallel, the Special Voting exercise, a key part of the 2024 general elections, is taking place on Monday, December 2, 2024, across 14 regions of Ghana. This voting is aimed at individuals who will be engaged in election-related duties on the main election day, ensuring they can cast their votes without conflicting with their responsibilities.
A total of 131,478 voters, which is about 0.007% of the total registered electorate, are expected to participate in the special voting. However, the Eastern and Western regions have been excluded from this exercise due to issues with the printing of ballot papers. A defaced ballot paper meant for the Eastern Region’s Presidential election was leaked, leading the Electoral Commission (EC) to recall and reprint the ballots for both regions. As a result, the special voting for these regions will now be held on Thursday, December 5, 2024.
The special voting arrangement covers a broad range of professionals, including personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces, National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), National Security, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana National Fire Service, the Information Services Department, and other essential services such as the National Ambulance Service and the Ghana Police Service.
Results of the special voting will not be announced until after the general elections. The Electoral Commission has emphasized its commitment to transparency, and the revised dates for the Eastern and Western regions’ special voting are in line with this approach.
