There is no need for NDC to own vigilante groups for any election – Tanko Computer

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has declared its intention not to establish vigilante groups or create alternative security arrangements to assist in future elections. Rashid Tanko Computer, the NDC’s Deputy Director of Elections and IT, made the announcement during an appearance on Accra-based Citi FM. Tanko Computer emphasized that the party will instead depend on Ghana’s existing security agencies to maintain order during elections and other political events.

He reiterated the party’s commitment to adhering to Ghana’s laws and allowing state security institutions to fulfill their constitutional duties. According to Tanko Computer, the NDC will avoid forming vigilante groups or other security entities that could undermine the authority of the state security forces. He stated that the NDC took the same approach during the 2024 general elections, relying solely on state security personnel without forming vigilante groups or deploying private security teams.

The comments come as there is renewed debate over enforcing the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999), which aims to curb political vigilantism and related activities. Tanko Computer indicated that the NDC would back efforts to find a permanent solution to political vigilantism and review proposals from the National Policy Dialogue on Vigilantism, organized by Election Watch Ghana.

The party’s primary objective is to ensure a peaceful environment for future elections, allowing citizens to vote without fear or intimidation. Tanko Computer also raised concerns about the previous administration's alleged practice of incorporating former vigilante members into state security structures.