Ghana: Vigilante group threatens protest November 20

Event

The group "Invincible Forces" threatened to stage protests in Ashanti province should the government not provide its members with jobs by Tuesday, November 20. The group alleges that the government has pledged to address unemployment in return for their support during political campaigns. A heightened security presence is likely and clashes with protesters and arrests cannot be ruled out.

Context

The Invincible Forces are a youth vigilante group that supports the New Patriotic Party (NPP), a center-right party that since 1992 has been one of the two dominant Ghanaian political parties. According to group leaders, the NPP allegedly rewarded the leaders of other youth vigilante groups, such as the Delta Force, with government positions following the 2016 presidential election. The Office of the Police Service recently indicated on October 31 that it is working to address vigilante groups supported by political parties which have reportedly been the source of increased violence during political campaigns.

Advice

Individuals in Ghana are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, avoid protests and demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.