The National Security Coordinator (NSCoord) in the Office of National Security (ONS), Abdulai Caulker has assured all political parties of a level playing field in the forthcoming June 2023 multi-tier elections.
Briefing stakeholders on the level of security preparedness, the ONS boss assures that the security sector remains poised to create the level playing field where all political parties will carry out their activities.
He explained that the Integrated Elections Security Planning Committee (IESPC) which has since been activated, has conducted National Elections Threats Assessment and District Risk Mapping as well as developed three key elections security documents which are currently being rolled out.
In addition, the National Situation Room which runs on 24/7 basis and on a Toll-Free Line (119), and an IESPC Secretariat, Incident Command Centers and Forward Control Points have also been fully activated to support the electoral processes.
To enhance the synergy within security sector agencies, a couple of weeks ago, the NSCoord led a cross section of the National Security Council Coordinating Group (NSCCG) into joint meetings with the decentralised security structures at the provincial level.
Other efforts aimed at building confidence in Security Sector service delivery, the NSCoord confirmed that engagements had been held between the Sector and political parties.
The NSCoord furthered that an immediate security threat confronting the Security Sector is the misuse of social media and toxic incitements made by politicians.
To diffuse these threats, a Security Sector Communication Strategy has also been developed in order to dismiss deceptive rumours.
In spite of these developments, the NSCoord emphasised that the security sector is adequately prepared to provide the requisite security for the upcoming general elections.
He strongly cautioned the general public and politicians to refrain from violence and making provocative statements.
In conclusion, the NSCoord pledged that the security sector will continue to provide the conducive environment for the conduct of the upcoming elections in a democratic and all-inclusive framework.
