IGP Commends Ghanaians for their Comportment

Story: Mary Mensah
THE Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr Paul Tawiah Quaye, has commended Ghanaians for comporting themselves and showing respect for the electoral procedures and regulations during last Friday’s polls.
He said even in the midst of challenges associated with the new voting system, Ghanaians were patient, tolerant and understanding.
Mr Quaye, who is also the Chairman of the 2012 National Elections Security Task Force, told the Daily Graphic in Accra yesterday that the calm manner in which Ghanaians turned out to exercise their franchise showed the level to which “we have taken our democracy”.
He said the peace and understanding demonstrated by Ghanaians on election day in particular and their co-operation with personnel of the security services led to the success of the polls.
He commended personnel of the security services for their show of professionalism and dedication to reinforce the message that the security services would be professional and up to the task.
Mr Quaye said the conduct of the security personnel actually won them the hearts of Ghanaians, including those who wanted to “misbehave”.
He assured Ghanaians that the security services were there to protect them and enforce the law with integrity and urged the people to complement the efforts of the security services by respecting the rule of law.
The IGP also commended the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lt Gen Peter Blay, for his co-operation and support in the run-up to the elections and on election day.
He thanked members of the National Peace Council, particularly its Chairman, the Most Rev Prof Emmanuel Asante, for his tirelessness and dedication to ensure that nothing untoward happened to derail the peace and stability of the country.
He said the security plans outlined for the elections and beyond would continue to be implemented and, therefore, urged Ghanaians to go about their businesses in a lawful manner, saying the police were ready to deal ruthlessly with anyone who breached the peace.