IGP Issues Stern Warning to Troublemakers Ahead of Akwatia By-Election: “Our Eyes Are Red

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has issued a stern warning to potential troublemakers ahead of the Akwatia by-election scheduled for September 2, 2025, declaring that the Ghana Police Service is fully prepared to maintain peace and order. Speaking at the High-Risk Operations Training Centre in Akyerematen, Eastern Region, on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, the IGP emphasized, “Our eyes are red for Akwatia, and nobody should think of coming to cause trouble.”

The by-election, triggered by the death of the sitting Member of Parliament, Ernest Yaw Kumi, in July 2025, will see the New Patriotic Party’s Solomon Kwame Asumadu face off against the National Democratic Congress’ Bernard Bediako Baidoo. With tensions reportedly high, the IGP’s remarks aim to ensure a peaceful electoral process following recent incidents of election-related violence in Ablekuma North.

Addressing the media, Dr. Yohuno assured Ghanaians of the police’s readiness, highlighting that officers have undergone specialized training to handle any threats. He stated that special prison trucks, known as Black Marias, will be deployed to swiftly detain anyone attempting to disrupt the polls. “Anyone who causes trouble will be picked up, kept inside, and later transferred to the police cells,” he warned.

The IGP also cautioned political parties and their supporters against mobilizing individuals to foment chaos, snatch ballot boxes, or carry weapons to polling stations. “If you come with arms, we will deal with you with arms,” he said, underscoring the police’s commitment to impartiality and professionalism.

In a separate engagement with the Ghana Journalists Association in Accra on August 20, Dr. Yohuno assured journalists of their safety, emphasizing their critical role in the democratic process. “No policeman will attack you; we are here to protect you,” he said, addressing concerns stemming from an assault on a journalist during the Ablekuma North rerun. He noted that the officer involved in that incident has been interdicted and faces disciplinary action, signaling a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct.

The Ghana Police Service has been proactive in its preparations, holding stakeholder meetings with political parties, the Electoral Commission, and the Institute of Democratic Governance to ensure transparency and coordination. The Electoral Commission confirmed that ballot printing began on August 20, 2025, with all materials procured for a smooth election.

The Chief of Akwatia, Osabarima Kofi Boateng III, has also called for peace, dismissing rumors of potential violence. “I know my town. I assure everyone that there will be no violence in Akwatia,” he stated, urging residents to focus on development rather than conflict.

As the by-election approaches, the police have vowed to maintain a visible presence to boost public confidence. Dr. Yohuno reiterated that any attempts to undermine the electoral process will be met with swift and decisive action, ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful election in Akwatia.

*By [Your Name], News Correspondent*