A fellow at the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Dr John Osae Kwapong has called for improved post-election security measures to protect state institutions and property. His comments come in response to the minority’s appeal to President John Mahama to address attacks on state property in the aftermath of elections.

Speaking on the AM Show on JoyNews, Dr Osae Kwapong highlighted the recurring issue of post-election violence, emphasising the need for public education and stricter law enforcement to prevent such incidents.

“There seems to be an unspoken rule that once there is a change in government, everything must turn over. Both parties and their supporters appear to understand and enforce this, which often leads to violence and destruction of state assets,” he said.

Dr Osae Kwapong stressed the importance of focusing on post-election security, which he believes has been neglected. “We devote a lot of energy to ensuring security during the elections, but we fail to address the period after. This cycle needs to change,” he said.

He also addressed the economic consequences of post-election violence, noting that it drains resources needed for development. “Destroying state property or violently taking over institutions does not benefit your party. The resources used to fix the damage could have been better utilised for development,” he stated.

In response to the minority’s call, he urged political parties to lead by example, educating their supporters against destructive behaviour. “Electoral victory is not a licence for violence. There is a process to follow for peaceful transitions, and the parties must help disabuse the minds of those who think otherwise,” he said.

Dr Osae Kwapong concluded by advocating for the strict enforcement of laws to deter such actions. “Punishing perpetrators is the only way to check this unfortunate conduct. It all boils down to effective law enforcement,” he said.

Read also: Minority demands immediate action from Mahama to halt attacks on state property