2024 Elections: 9 Hotspots, 42 Flashpoints Identified in the Central Region
Ahead of the much-anticipated 2024 general elections, the Central Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has identified nine hotspots and 42 flashpoints in the region, highlighting areas prone to potential electoral violence. These findings underscore the need for heightened security and vigilance to ensure peaceful elections.
Identified Hotspots
The nine hotspots in the Central Region include constituencies with a history of political tension and areas where contesting parties have strongholds. These constituencies are:
Cape Coast North
Cape Coast South
Effutu
Awutu Senya East
Awutu Senya West
Gomoa East
Assin Central
Assin North
Twifo Hemang Lower Denkyira
These areas were flagged due to past incidents of political clashes, inflammatory rhetoric by candidates, and heightened tension during voter registration and campaign activities.
Flashpoints of Concern
The 42 flashpoints within these constituencies were identified based on intelligence reports, historical trends, and the likelihood of disputes over election results. These include polling stations with contested boundaries, areas with rival political factions, and communities with unresolved local grievances.
Measures to Curb Violence
To address these concerns, the Central REGSEC has rolled out a comprehensive security plan. This includes:
Deployment of Security Personnel: Increased police and military presence in hotspots and flashpoints.
Peace Education Campaigns: Collaborating with civil society organizations to educate the public on the importance of peaceful elections.
Monitoring Political Activities: Keeping a close watch on rallies, campaigns, and other political activities to prevent incitement of violence.
Engaging Traditional Leaders: Traditional authorities in identified areas are being involved to foster dialogue and discourage divisive politics.
Call for Collaboration
The Regional Minister has called on all stakeholders, including political parties, electoral officials, and voters, to prioritize peace and adhere to electoral guidelines. "The success of the elections depends on our collective commitment to peace. Let us avoid inflammatory language and acts that could trigger violence," the minister emphasized.
Conclusion
With the identification of these hotspots and flashpoints, the Central Region is poised to take proactive steps to ensure a peaceful electoral process. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to authorities as the nation gears up for the 2024 elections.
Peaceful elections are a shared responsibility, and all eyes are on the Central Region to set an example for the rest of the country.
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