Police announce routes to 'avoid tension' as NPP and NDC hold final rallies in Accra

The Ghana Police Service has unveiled comprehensive security arrangements and designated routes to ensure a peaceful conclusion to the 2024 campaign season, as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) hold simultaneous final rallies in Accra on Thursday, December 5.  

Venues and proximity concerns  

The NPP will host its “Possibilities Victory Rally” at the UG Sports Directorate Park, opposite the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, while the NDC will gather at Zurak Park in Madina for its “Resetting Ghana – Let’s Finish Strong” rally.  

In a press release issued by Assistant Commissioner of Police Grace Ansah-Akrofi, the Police expressed concerns over the close proximity of the two venues along the Accra-Madina corridor, noting the risk of potential confrontations. However, both parties declined suggestions to relocate, citing political disadvantages.  

Designated routes for supporters  

To prevent tension and ensure smooth proceedings, the Police have approved specific routes for supporters:  

- NPP Supporters;  

  - From Adenta: Turn left at Ritz Junction, proceed via American House, and connect through Opkonglo to the rally venue.  
  - From Dome: Turn right at Haatso Junction and follow the route towards GIMPA to access the University of Ghana.  

- NDC Supporters  

  - From Tetteh Quarshie: Turn right at Shiashie, proceed along Lagos Avenue, connect with Trinity Avenue to UPSA, then left onto the UPSA road to the Madina-Accra highway, and turn right to Zurak Park.  
  - From Dome: Take a left turn at KFC Junction towards the Wisconsin area.  
  - From Adenta: Use any suitable route to reach the rally location.  

The Police will block North Legon and Memuna roads to facilitate the NDC rally, while all other roads remain open to normal traffic.  

Traffic and security measures  

Acknowledging the likelihood of heavy traffic congestion, the Police have advised commuters to consider alternative routes. Group movements of party supporters outside approved routes and motorbikes near the venues will not be permitted to prevent congestion and security breaches.  

Strategically positioned Police officers will assist supporters and monitor activities to ensure safety.  

Appeal for comportment 

The Police urged both parties and their supporters to maintain the decorum exhibited during the campaign season. "We entreat the parties and their supporters to carry into tomorrow's rally the level of comportment they have exhibited in their campaigns so far to ensure a peaceful and orderly event," the statement read.  

The public has been encouraged to report any security concerns to the Election Emergency Command Centre via the toll-free number 0800311311.  

High-Stakes day in Accra 

The rallies mark the climax of intense campaigning ahead of the December 7 polls. Analysts believe the simultaneous events in the Greater Accra Region, a key battleground, could be pivotal in shaping voter sentiments.  

With President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, former President John Agyekum Kufuor, and other high-profile figures expected at the NPP rally, and key NDC executives, including the flagbearer John Dramani Mahama and his running mate Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, leading the opposition’s charge, Thursday’s rallies are set to dominate national attention.  

As both parties make their final pitch, the Police remain committed to ensuring peace and order, urging all Ghanaians to prioritise national unity during this critical period.