The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana, Rt. Rev. Dr. Lt. Col. (Rtd.) Bliss Divine Agbeko, has expressed concern over the fragile security arrangements that allowed political vigilantes to infiltrate some voting centres during the Ablekuma North re-run of Parliamentary elections, held across 19 polling stations.

“Our security personnel assumed the elections would be peaceful and therefore underrated the magnitude of the tension. They took things for granted and failed to implement the necessary strict security measures that could have deterred and warded off potential vigilantes and troublemakers from accessing the polling centres,” he lamented.

He, however, commended the security personnel on the ground for their vigilance and swift reorganisation, which helped to contain and de-escalate the chaotic situation.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Lt. Col. Agbeko, who also serves as Chairman of the Christian Council of Ghana, made these statements during the ordination of 13 pastors of the E.P. Church, Ghana, who had completed their two-year probation in ministerial stewardship.

Addressing the way forward for future elections, especially in potential skirmish-prone areas, the retired military officer called for a multi-stakeholder approach.

He emphasised the importance of collaboration among state security agencies, law enforcement bodies, regulatory institutions, political parties, and the general citizenry to ensure peace and security across the country.





He noted that conflict has no respect for political affiliation, religion, tribe, or gender.

He also urged faith-based organisations to expose individuals who commit such acts of violence but seek refuge under the cover of religious platforms and congregations.

Turning his attention to the newly ordained ministers, Rt. Rev. Dr. Lt. Col. (Rtd.) Agbeko admonished them to be guided by unwavering faith in God, adherence to the Church’s constitution, and high ethical and moral standards in their pastoral duties.

“Do not become swollen-headed with power or think yourselves superior,” he warned.

He added, “Instead, ensure that your stewardship leads to genuine growth and spiritual transformation. Your theological education is meaningless if it does not result in societal transformation.”