Audio: CDD-Ghana demands answers over police failure during rerun violence

The Director of Policy Engagement and Partnership at the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Dr. Kojo Pumpuni Asante, has raised serious concerns about the conduct of police officers during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun, describing their inaction as a threat to national security and public confidence in law enforcement.

Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on Monday, July 14, Dr. Asante said the violent scenes at the polling centre revealed a disturbing pattern of police reluctance to confront political vigilantes, an issue he warns could cast a long shadow over the upcoming Akwatia by-election.

He stated that the systemic challenges facing the police force must be addressed urgently. He noted that officers who attempt to enforce the law sometimes face neglect when injured or even risk career consequences.

“The objective was to de-escalate, and at some point, it reached a stage where they simply decided not to interfere. That makes everyone in this country feel insecure.

“What we are saying is this: these incidents have been catalogued. We know the kinds of incentives that drive the police to act in certain ways trying to secure their jobs, avoid transfers, or escape victimization. Because sometimes, when an officer tries to step in and even gets hurt, they may not receive the support or treatment they need. You could be maimed, and no one would care.” He stated,

Dr. Kojo Pumpuni Asante continued, “This is fundamental. For me, there is no way, whether it’s the NPP or NDC, vigilantes or whoever that they can stand against the full might of the state’s power or its control over force. If the police want to do their job, no vigilante group can stop them”

He called on the Police Council to initiate a formal inquiry into the Ablekuma North incident—not just to arrest perpetrators but to examine structural failures within the police service and prevent future occurrences.

“So if the police are unable to do their job, we should ask why. Is there interference? Are they being ordered not to act? That’s why we’ve asked the Police Council, which has control and direction over the service, to launch an inquiry.

“It’s not just about finding the perpetrators. That’s a first and very important step in changing this trajectory. But we need to get to the bottom of it.” He said.

Source: Elvisanokyenews.net