President John Dramani Mahama has expressed serious concerns about the lack of justice for those who died during the 2020 and 2024 general elections.
While recognizing the peaceful conduct of the 2024 elections, President Mahama underlined the urgency of providing justice for victims in order to discourage future electoral violence. He voiced concern that failing to address these incidents will develop a culture of impunity.
Calling for action, Mahama urged Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), to investigate the killings in both elections and prosecute those involved.
On January 10, Mahama spoke at a special National Muslim prayer and thanksgiving session at the National Mosque in Kanda, Accra, saying, “Even though this election was peaceful, we must acknowledge that a number of our countrymen died. My impression is that nearly five of our citizens were assassinated during the electoral process. This is not the first time eight of our citizens have been slain; we know that eight were killed in the 2020 [election].
“If this continues and justice is not served, it promotes impunity. That is why our party, the National Democratic Congress, has stated that we must conduct an investigation to determine what caused these atrocities. So we can take action to ensure that it does not happen again.”
In light of this, Mr Mahama revealed that he has directed his Executive Secretary, Callitus Mahama, to write a letter to the IGP reporting on the present state of the killings.
“I asked my Executive Secretary to write to the IGP and provide an update on the status of the investigations into these killings. “Justice must be done.”
The President also urged Dr Dominic Ayine, the Attorney-General-designate, to assess equitable compensation for the relatives of the deceased when he takes office.
“We would also ask the Attorney General when he assumes office to determine a fair and adequate compensation to the families.“
The gathering brought together key officials, the Chief Imam, Muslim believers, and members of the general public to express appreciation and seek divine guidance for their country.
