The Ghana Police Service has interdicted an officer captured on video assaulting a journalist during a rerun of parliamentary elections in the Ablekuma North constituency, an incident that has sparked public outcry and renewed scrutiny over the conduct of security personnel at polling centers.

In a statement issued Friday the Ghana Police Service confirmed the withdrawal of the officer from election duties and announced that the case had been referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) for internal investigation.

“We would like to assure the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the matter and further updates will be communicated,” said ASP Richmond Mensah, Director of Public Affairs.

The incident occurred on July 11 during a high-stakes parliamentary rerun in Ablekuma North, a constituency in the Greater Accra Region. Banahene Agyekum, a reporter with GH One Television, was allegedly slapped by a senior police officer while covering voting activities. The attack was reportedly witnessed by Accra Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who later called for the officer’s removal, citing concerns about the officer’s temperament.

TV3 correspondent George Kwaning reported that the district police commander arrived at the scene shortly after the altercation to assess the situation and asked the mayor to vacate the area, citing concerns that his presence was drawing crowds and escalating tensions.

Agyekum, who later complained of pain in his right eye and a suspected forehead injury, said he was unable to continue his coverage and would seek immediate medical attention.

The rerun, involving 19 polling stations, was mandated by the Electoral Commission to resolve an ongoing dispute from the December 2024 general elections. The incident adds to a series of violent disruptions during the rerun, including an earlier attack on political candidates by unidentified assailants, as Ghana struggles to uphold electoral stability in a politically polarized environment.

Source:TheDotNews