The government has been urged to make public the amount of funds that have been allocated for state security services towards the 2024 general elections.
According to a Security Consultant, Mr Ofori Atta, the transparency in this disbursement was crucial for accountability.
He said it would also assure the citizens that adequate preparations were being made to maintain peace and order during the electoral process.
“Ghana approaches this year’s elections, it was imperative that the government, through the Ministry of Finance, transparently discloses any budget allocations specifically designated for state security services,” he said.
He was speaking in a telephone interview with the Ghanaian Times on the country’s preparation towards the December polls especially the resourcing of the security agencies.
Mr Atta urged Parliament, particularly the Committee on the Interior to scrutinise the budget to ensure that adequate funds had been provided for the security services toward election duties and also to ensure the budget was not bloated.
“It is essential that Parliament, as a house of records, exercises its oversight functions by rigorously questioning the Committee Chairman and the Chairman of the Police Council (the Vice President) on the specific plans and budgetary provisions made to safeguard the nation’s security during this critical period, “he added.
He said while elections were fundamental to the democratic process, the security architecture and the peace of the nation must be paramount.
The Security Analyst stressed the need for the public to be informed about the measures being put in place to ensure that the election period was peaceful and secure.
Mr Atta said proactive disclosure of security budget and plans will not only enhance public confidence but also deter potential threats by demonstrating the government’s commitment to safeguarding the electoral process.
“It is not just about conducting elections but ensuring that they are held in an environment where the safety and security of every Ghanaian were guaranteed,’’ he added.
He said government’s approach to the general elections must be strategic, transparent, and above all, focused on the long-term stability of the nation.
Mr Atta urged the public to promote peace and stability in all their activities to ensure peace and stability during and after elections.
“We must also all be concern citizens and promote security, peace and stability in the country to promote the economy, “he added .
BY ANITA NYARKO -YIRENKYI
