Police T deploy 'Black Maria'
The Ghana Police Service has announced the deployment of a ‘Black Maria’ security vehicle as part of its comprehensive security strategy for the upcoming Akwatia by-election in the Eastern Region. This move, officials say, is aimed at strengthening law and order, deterring potential electoral violence, and ensuring a transparent and peaceful election process.
The Akwatia by-election has attracted nationwide attention due to its political significance. Historically, Akwatia has been a highly contested constituency between the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), often recording heated campaigns and occasional disturbances. In light of this, the Police Service is leaving no stone unturned in safeguarding lives and property before, during, and after the polls.
Why the ‘Black Maria’?
The ‘Black Maria’, also known as a police van or paddy wagon, is traditionally used to transport suspects, detainees, or riot-related offenders. Its introduction to the by-election is seen as a preventive measure to swiftly deal with any incidents of violence, ballot box snatching, or acts of intimidation that may occur on election day.
According to the Eastern Regional Police Command, the vehicle will be strategically stationed around key polling centers to provide rapid response capability. It will also serve as a psychological deterrent to individuals or groups who may consider disrupting the peace.
Police Assurances
The Ghana Police Service has assured the public, political parties, and stakeholders that its presence is not meant to intimidate voters but rather to create an atmosphere of safety and confidence. “The ‘Black Maria’ is not a tool for harassment. It is a tool to ensure peace, fairness, and the protection of Ghana’s democracy,” an official noted.
Additionally, more than 300 officers drawn from various units—including the Formed Police Unit (FPU), Regional Rapid Deployment Force (RDF), and Community Policing Unit—will be deployed to provide security coverage across all polling stations in the constituency.
Political Reactions
The deployment has drawn mixed reactions from political watchers and citizens alike.
Some residents of Akwatia welcomed the move, describing it as a proactive step to prevent disturbances that have marred elections in the past. “We want peace. If bringing the ‘Black Maria’ means no one will misbehave, then we support it,” one resident told reporters.
On the other hand, some opposition figures expressed concerns, suggesting that the use of such a vehicle could create fear among ordinary voters. However, the Police Service maintains that its role is neutral and strictly focused on law enforcement.
Akwatia’s Election History
The Akwatia constituency has long been recognized as one of Ghana’s electoral hotspots. In the 2008 general elections, Akwatia witnessed violent clashes, ballot box snatching, and court interventions that delayed results. In recent years, security arrangements have been tightened to avoid a repeat of those incidents.
The current by-election follows the vacancy created by the resignation of the sitting Member of Parliament. Both the NPP and NDC are campaigning vigorously, making the constituency a focal point of national attention.
Broader Security Outlook
Beyond the deployment of the ‘Black Maria’, the Ghana Police Service has also announced measures such as:
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Strict enforcement of electoral laws to ensure compliance.
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Intelligence monitoring to track and neutralize potential troublemakers.
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Close collaboration with the Electoral Commission, traditional leaders, and election observers to guarantee transparency.
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Hotlines for the public to report suspicious activities or threats.
The Police have further warned that anyone found engaging in acts of violence, voter intimidation, or electoral malpractice will be swiftly dealt with according to the law.
Conclusion
The introduction of the ‘Black Maria’ at the Akwatia by-election underscores Ghana’s commitment to safeguarding its democracy. While opinions remain divided on whether the move may cause unease among voters, one thing is clear: the Police Service is determined to prevent the chaos of past elections from reoccurring.
As Ghanaians look forward to a peaceful, free, and fair election, all eyes will be on Akwatia. The success of this by-election will serve as a test case for Ghana’s ability to uphold democratic principles amid heightened political competition.
Source: My News Ghana
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