The National Security Coordinator, COP Osman Abdul Razak, has issued a significant concern regarding the evolving tactics of political vigilante groups in Ghana, signaling a shift away from traditional, publicly visible operations. According to a statement released by the National Security Coordinator on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, these groups are increasingly adopting less conspicuous methods, including presenting themselves as internal security teams, volunteer task forces, and community security initiatives – a marked departure from their previously open presence.
This transformation has been accompanied by a notable increase in mobilization activities, with groups now increasingly utilizing social media platforms and encrypted messaging channels to organize and disseminate their activities. COP Abdul Razak explained that ‘We are very much aware that some groups are rebranding as internal security teams, volunteer task forces, or community security initiatives,’ referencing a recent briefing at a policy dialogue organized by Election Watch Ghana at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in Accra.
He underscored that mobilization has moved online, extending beyond traditional channels to include local disputes, private security arrangements, and even informal networks. The statement highlighted that the shift represents a significant change in how these groups operate, demanding adjustments from security agencies and the public. Previously, vigilante groups were characterized by identifiable names, uniforms, and command structures, making their operations readily apparent. However, this rebranding is now occurring within a digital environment, blurring the lines between organized and informal activity.
The National Security Coordinator cautioned against assuming that reduced visibility of these groups equates to complete elimination of their presence. He emphasized that a vigilante group, regardless of its name, uniform, or publicity, remains a vigilante group – a concept that remains fundamentally unchanged.
The Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999), was enacted to disband political vigilante groups and criminalize their formation, organization, recruitment, training, arming, financing, and support. The law has demonstrably reduced the open presence of organized vigilante groups, which previously operated with recognizable names, uniforms, and established command structures. However, the evolving nature of political vigilantism necessitates a strategic re-evaluation of security agencies’ tactics, particularly given the increasing prevalence of digital mobilization.
COP Abdul Razak acknowledged challenges in enforcing the law, noting that prosecutions have been limited and proceedings have, in some cases, been protracted. He warned that delays or selective application of the law could compromise the deterrent effect of the Act.
He urged security agencies and stakeholders to begin preparations well in advance of elections, emphasizing the importance of intelligence gathering, mapping, and stakeholder engagement. Specifically, he proposed that intelligence gathering, mapping, and stakeholder engagements should commence between 12 and 18 months before elections. Furthermore, he advocated for youth engagement and civic education to follow, alongside monitoring of political mobilization, with efforts intensifying at least six months prior to the election period.
The dialogue organized by Election Watch Ghana provided a crucial opportunity to assess the implementation of Act 999, identify gaps in enforcement, and develop strategies to safeguard Ghana’s peace and democratic governance. The group’s assessment highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach encompassing both law enforcement and community engagement to mitigate potential risks and maintain stability ahead of future elections.”
This evolving landscape underscores the need for adaptive security strategies, demanding vigilance and proactive planning from all stakeholders. The Act’s enforcement, as currently implemented, presents a significant challenge, and the Coordinator stressed the importance of consistency and non-political considerations in its application. The focus must shift towards ensuring a measured response to this changing dynamic, safeguarding democratic processes while minimizing potential risks to societal stability.
Watch Related Video
Source: Adom Online
