By Savannah Pokuaah Duah
Defense Minister Dominic Nitiwul has absolved government of any blame for any security lapses during the 2024 elections. Instead, he says that responsibility rests with the National Elections Security Task Force, led by Inspector General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, as the entity responsible for overseeing security arrangements throughout the election process.
During a parliamentary session on Monday, December 16, 2024, Defense Minister Dominic Nitiwul responded to concerns raised by the Minority in Parliament regarding the deaths of two individuals during the election period.
He emphasised that any inquiries about election-related security issues should be directed at the National Elections Security Task Force, rather than government ministers or appointees.
“You cannot be a judge in your own court,” Nitiwul explained, stressing that the Executive’s control over security would be a conflict of interest.
“That is why, if any official briefing is needed, it must come from the IGP and his team.”
The two fatalities in question occurred in Nyankpala, Northern Region, and Awutu Senya East Constituency, Kasoa, in the Central Region. According to police reports, the incidents involved a shooting and similar tragic circumstances.
Nitiwul’s assertion that the National Elections Security Task Force is accountable for election security is consistent with the regulatory framework governing public elections in Ghana.
