Ghana: President-elect to be sworn in for second term, Jan. 7 /update 3

Event

President Nana Akufo-Addo will be sworn in for a second term at the Parliament House in Accra, Ghana Jan. 7. The event will include a number of local and foreign dignitaries and follows the opposition National Democratic Party's (NDC) legal challenge of the results.

Despite election monitors having asserted that the vote was transparent, NDC leaders claim the polls were rigged and plan to contest the outcome in court. According to the results released by the Election Commission, Akufo-Addo won at least 51.59 percent of the vote, with former president John Mahama securing 47.36 percent.

Heightened security is expected in the vicinity of the Parliament House. Central Accra, and especially election-related buildings, may be focal points for inauguration-related protests. Recent episodes of sporadic election-related violence have resulted in the deaths of five people nationwide. Authorities will likely monitor any protests that may materialize and may seek to disperse events if they become too disruptive. Ground travel and business disruptions are expected near the inauguration site and any potential protest sites.

Context

Although Ghana has generally experienced peaceful democratic elections and transfers of power since its return to civilian rule in 1993, political tensions will likely remain elevated through at least mid January. Opposition leaders could call on their supporters to engage in demonstrations in support of the legal challenge, despite a court-ordered ban on NDC protests in Accra from Dec. 20 to Jan. 10. Rival activists may hold counterrallies; clashes between opposing groups could occur.

Advice

If operating in Ghana, exercise increased personal vigilance Jan. 7. Avoid all demonstrations due to the possibility of political violence. Keep away from areas where security personnel appear to be deploying, as well as buildings or other sites of symbolic value, including the Supreme Court of Ghana. If clashes break out nearby, take shelter in a secure non-governmental building. Monitor trusted local news sources for developments. Heed all instructions from security personnel and allow additional travel time near gatherings.