Stay away from protest zones during Ghanaian elections – US govt warns nationals
The United States (US) government has advised its nationals resident in Ghana to stay away from likely protest zones during the December 7 polls.
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A statement issued by the US Embassy in Accra said it had no information regarding any planned protests but warned that such gatherings could occur spontaneously throughout Ghana.
The statement warned, “Exercise caution during the election process, particularly around polling locations in the weeks before and after the elections.
"Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.
"Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution when in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.”
The US Embassy in Ghana had earlier threatened to revoke visas of persons who incite violence during the elections after a clash between supporters of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in front of the residence of the NPP flagbearer, Nana Akufo-Addo.
The statement also identified locations in eight regions where people could converge to hold spontaneous political rallies and demonstrations.
Below is the entire statement:
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Accra (Ghana), Safety Considerations and the Upcoming Elections
The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that on Wednesday, December 7, 2016, Ghana will hold its presidential and parliamentary elections. While the Embassy has no information regarding planned protests, it should be noted that social disruptions or protests could occur with little or no warning throughout Ghana.
Exercise caution during the election process, particularly around polling locations in the weeks before and after the elections. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution when in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.
Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security and follow instructions of local authorities.
The Embassy identified the following locations in Accra as key areas where people converge to hold spontaneous political rallies and demonstrations:
- State House
- The Ministries
- Kwame Nkrumah Circle
- Independence Square
- Mantse Agbona (James Town)
- Kawokudi Park
- Nima Police Station Park
Embassy personnel are not permitted to travel at night outside of major cities and are encouraged to avoid the following areas outside of Accra:
- Upper West: Lawra, Wa Central
- Upper East: Bawku
- Northern: Tolon, Sagnarigu, Yendi
- Volta: Nkwanta South, Hohoe, Ho Central, Adaklu, Ketu South
- Western: Jomoro, Bia West
- Brong Ahafo: Techiman South, Tain, Berekum West, Berekum East, and
- Ashanti: Bantama, Asokwa, Nhyiaeso, Manhyia North, Manhyia South, Suame, Oforikrom, and Asawase.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens travelling to or residing in Ghana enrol in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy to contact you in an emergency. If you do not have internet access, enrol directly with the U.S. embassy in Accra, Ghana, using the below contact information.