NPP bans bodyguards, large supporter groups at regional elections

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has introduced stricter security measures ahead of its regional executive elections, warning candidates not to bring bodyguards or large groups of supporters to polling centres.

Ebenezer Doku, a member of the NPP Greater Accra Regional Elections Committee, said a strong police presence would be deployed to protect delegates and maintain order throughout the voting process.

He disclosed that about 400 police officers would be assigned to provide security for the 700 delegates expected to participate in the Greater Accra election.

Mr Doku said the committee was determined to ensure a peaceful election and had therefore asked all candidates to refrain from bringing personal security personnel or large entourages into the voting areas.

He explained that each aspirant would be allowed a maximum of three accredited observers to accompany them to the polling centre, rather than large groups of supporters.

According to him, previous elections had experienced disturbances partly because of large crowds accompanying candidates to voting centres.

The NPP is conducting its regional executive elections across all 16 regions to elect officials who will oversee the party’s activities at the regional level for the next four years.

Mr Doku urged candidates and their supporters to comply with the security arrangements and cooperate with the police to ensure a smooth and peaceful electoral process.