CDS Africa urges swift reforms in Ghana Police Service

The Africa Centre for Democracy and Socioeconomic Development (CDS Africa), a think tank advocating for democratic values, has called for urgent reforms within the Ghana Police Service. 

This appeal follows recent protests in Kumasi and Accra, where significant gaps in crowd control tactics have raised concerns.

In a statement, CDS Africa emphasised the need for comprehensive police administration reforms and improved crowd control training to better handle demonstrations, citing the “Enough is Enough” protest in Kumasi on 17 September 2024 and the Democracy Hub’s three-day protest in Accra. 

While the police’s professionalism during these events was noted, CDS Africa warned that the current handling of large gatherings needs significant improvement to prevent escalations into violence that could jeopardise both protesters and law enforcement officers.

Ghana’s Constitution protects the right to protest as a cornerstone of democracy. However, the approach taken by law enforcement in managing these protests has come under scrutiny. 

Investigative bodies such as the Ayawaso West Wuogon Commission and the Ejura Committee have previously recommended reforms, particularly advocating for restraint and professionalism in managing public demonstrations.

The Ayawaso West Wuogon Commission highlighted the dangers posed by “the reckless use of force,” stressing that such actions erode trust between citizens and state institutions. 

Similarly, the Ejura Committee, which investigated the deaths of two protesters in 2021, called for a complete overhaul of non-lethal crowd control methods, emphasising better communication and negotiation strategies with protest organisers.

Despite these recommendations, CDS Africa criticised the lack of full implementation of these critical reforms. The think tank urged the Ministry of the Interior to take immediate action, including revising police policies, promoting accountability, and equipping officers with the necessary tools—both physical and psychological—to manage large gatherings diplomatically.

As Ghana approaches its upcoming elections, CDS Africa emphasised the need for a peaceful environment for political expression. 

It is the responsibility of the government, the Ministry of the Interior, and the leadership of the Ghana Police Service to ensure the right to protest is safeguarded while maintaining public safety.

CDS Africa reiterated that the reforms should not only focus on tactical training but also on fostering a culture of de-escalation, professionalism, and respect for the democratic rights of citizens. 

By doing so, law enforcement can be better prepared to manage protests without violence or unnecessary confrontations.

Reporting by Caleb Ahinakwah in Accra

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