Security analyst Andrews Asiedu Tetteh has urged the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to ensure an incident-free national delegates conference, where over 7,000 delegates are expected to elect new national executives.
Highlighting that the party demonstrated commendable discipline and high security standards during its presidential primaries, he stressed that this same level of order must be reflected at the upcoming conference on Saturday, 3 October.
Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Mr Asiedu Tetteh emphasized the importance of conducting the elections in a manner that prevents any escalation into violence.
He cautioned young people against allowing themselves to be used as tools for disruption, warning that offenders will face the full rigor of the law.
Describing the exercise as crucial, the analyst noted that delegates bear the responsibility of choosing officers to steer party affairs for the next four years.
”The NPP organised violent-free presidential primaries, and we would encourage them to do the same at the upcoming national elections,” he stated. “It is important to abide by the law and avoid the use of machomen or vigilante groups to foment trouble during the process. The law prevents that, and when you are caught, you will be prosecuted.”
To achieve a peaceful process, he underscored that all aspirants must manage their supporters effectively and discourage any violent conduct. He further admonished candidates who emerge unsuccessful to accept defeat gracefully and throw their support behind the elected leaders.
”Machomen should not allow a bag of rice and a few banknotes to entice them into creating violence. Think about your future and do not allow people to use you, or you will end up in prison,” he cautioned.
He added that aspirants must lead by example and maintain order among their followings, stressing that police are fully prepared to deal with troublemakers.
”The aspirants should also maintain discipline, respect one another, and recognise that leadership is about respecting the rule of law and eschewing lawlessness. We need men and women of integrity. The police are prepared to deal with anyone who will foment trouble. Only accredited officials must be allowed to handle the process, and those who violate that must not be spared,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Ghana Police Service has announced extensive security and traffic management plans ahead of the conference at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.
DSP Godwin Ahianyo, Head of the Public Affairs Unit and Public Relations Officer for the Ashanti Regional Police Command, confirmed that a comprehensive operational plan has been activated to ensure safety and maintain order before, during, and after the event.
Additional personnel and logistics from the National Police Headquarters in Accra will be deployed to reinforce local forces on the ground.
“We are expecting a large number of people in Kumasi for this national event. The Inspector-General of Police and the national command are providing extra men and logistics to support us on the ground. Our focus is on security, traffic management and public safety,” DSP Ahianyo disclosed.
To secure the venue enclave, ease congestion, and ensure uninterrupted movement for delegates, several key access roads around the stadium will be temporarily closed or diverted.
Affected routes include the Amakom Road stretch to Calvary Methodist Church Road, the Unity Oil area to T.I. Ahmadiyya Senior High School (AMASS), and adjacent stadium roads.
Officers from the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) will be positioned across vantage points in Kumasi to guide motorists, manage alternative routes, and prevent gridlock. Police authorities have urged residents, drivers, and delegates to plan movements early, respect directives, and avoid unauthorized parking.
“We have put in adequate measures to ensure that while the conference goes on, normal life in Kumasi is not unduly disrupted. We seek the cooperation of everyone,” he added.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
