President John Dramani Mahama has called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to promptly conclude investigations into the violent incidents that occurred during the 2024 general elections and ensure that all perpetrators are prosecuted impartially.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Post-2024 Elections Evaluation Dialogue organized by the National Peace Council in Koforidua, President Mahama emphasized the urgent need to restore public confidence in Ghana’s electoral system by holding those responsible for election-related violence accountable.
“We cannot afford a democracy where violence goes unpunished. I am urging the IGP to expedite the investigation process and ensure justice is served,” President Mahama asserted.
He condemned the instances of violence reported in several constituencies during the elections, labeling them as a setback to Ghana’s democratic progress.
“Elections should never cost lives. Those who committed these crimes must be brought to justice so that the families of victims can find closure,” he stated.
In addition, President Mahama announced that measures were being implemented to provide relief to families affected by electoral violence.
“I have been informed that the Attorney General is preparing a report to Cabinet to ensure adequate compensation for victims and the relatives of the deceased. This is not merely a political issue; it’s about justice and humanity,” he noted.
He also commended the passage of the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999), which has played a role in reducing party militia activities, and called for further electoral and security sector reforms.
“The disbandment of vigilante groups has been instrumental in decreasing political violence. However, more work is needed. We must ensure our security agencies are not manipulated for partisan gain,” Mahama cautioned.
The dialogue, which included political actors, civil society, and electoral stakeholders, aimed to review the 2024 elections to enhance future democratic processes.
About The Author
