A criminologist at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Jones Opoku-Ware, has attributed recent chaos in the aftermath of the 2024 general elections to the lack of ineffective planning by security agencies.He pointed out that resources are often concentrated on the lead-up to and the duration of elections, while post-election issues receive little attention.

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Discussing the unrest in certain regions after the general elections, Mr. Opoku-Ware remarked, “We didn’t pay much attention to the aftermath of the election. If you look at the security arrangements, a lot more focus and resources are dedicated to before and during the election, but we usually overlook what happens after the election results are declared.

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”He also clarified that, against popular belief, violence can emerge not only from the losing parties but also from those who are anticipated to win.He remarked, “The violence may not necessarily come from people who have lost but probably from those who are likely to be declared as winners.

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”He also noted that, contrary to common assumptions, violence can be sparked not only by the losing parties but also by those who are expected to emerge victorious.Following December 7 elections, several regions across the country have witnessed ongoing post-election violence. Reports suggest that the violent actions are being carried out by supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the party that won the election.

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In the past three days, a number of state institutions, including the Forestry Commission in Sunyani, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) in Accra, Electoral Commission offices in various districts, and the Metro Mass Transport yard in Kaneshie, have been targeted by groups of thugs.In some cases, looters have stolen government property such as computers, agricultural supplies, and other assets.

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As of now, the Ghana Police Service has apprehended 106 individuals believed to be involved in these acts of violence across the country.

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