The New Patriotic Party (NPP) says the Ghana Police Service will be armed to provide security during the party’s presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, following intelligence reports of possible threats linked to the process.
According to the Secretary of the NPP Election Committee, William Yamoah, the decision to allow police officers to carry weapons was taken after the party intercepted videos and commentaries suggesting potential violence surrounding the polls.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Burning Issues, Mr Yamoah explained that the move was made at the request of the party to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
“The police are going to use weapons during the January 31 primaries upon our request. The NPP Election Committee asked them to hold the weapons because we have intercepted videos and commentaries of threats,” he said.
He noted that although it is unclear whether the threats are genuine, the party cannot afford to take chances with the safety of delegates and officials.
“We don’t know whether these are empty threats or not, and we cannot put people’s lives at risk,” Mr Yamoah stressed.
He further clarified that the concerns go beyond internal party disagreements, pointing to possible external interference.
“These are not internal but external threats, and we cannot leave anything to chance. We need to prepare,” he added.
Mr Yamoah said the decision forms part of broader security measures being put in place to ensure the primaries are conducted peacefully and without intimidation. He urged party supporters and delegates to cooperate fully with security personnel on the day of voting.
The NPP is expected to elect its presidential candidate for the upcoming general elections at the January 31 primaries, an exercise that will draw delegates from across the country.
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