Mahama Directs IGP To Open Investigation Into 2020 And 2024 Election Deaths
- President John Mahama directed the police service to initiate immediate investigations into deaths recorded during the last two elections
- The presidency has described these incidents as a lasting scar on Ghana's democratic process
- The presidency has also requested periodic updates on the progress of the investigation into the deaths
President John Mahama has requested that the police service initiates immediate investigations into the deaths of Ghanaian citizens during the 2020 and 2024 general elections.
A letter from the presidency sighted by YEN.com.gh described these incidents as a lasting scar on the country's democratic process.
Source: Facebook
The presidency stressed that justice must be served for the victims and their families.
To ensure comprehensive and transparent investigations, the presidency proposed the establishment of a dedicated investigative task force, collaboration with witnesses and families, collaboration with electoral and civic bodies, a review of electoral security arrangements, and the use of forensic evidence.
According to the letter, the presidency also requested periodic updates on the progress of the investigation.
"This will help to keep stakeholders informed and assure the public of your commitment to uncovering the truth."
Mahama has in the past stressed that justice is critical to ensuring peace in Ghana.
Mahama concerned about loss of lives
At the National Muslim Prayer and Thanksgiving service held at the National Mosque in Accra, Mahama expressed deep concern over the loss of lives during the December 7 election, calling for justice and accountability.
While acknowledging the peaceful nature of the election, he lamented the deaths of five citizens during the process.
He also recalled similar incidents in the 2020 elections, where eight lives were lost, emphasising the need for immediate action to prevent such tragedies in the future.
"If these continue and justice is not served, then what it does is it breeds impunity."
He further reiterated his party’s commitment to ensuring accountability, announcing that steps had already been taken to address the issue. “
The president also said the Attorney General will look into ensuring fairer compensation for affected persons.
"Justice must be done. And we also will ask the Attorney General, when he takes office, to determine fair and adequate compensation for the families of those who have lost their lives."
More attacks recorded on state institutions
YEN.com.gh reported that more attacks have been recorded on state institutions as the Mahama administration takes over from the Akufo-Addo administration.
Some suspected National Democratic Congress supporters stormed the New Juaben South Municipal Assembly on Wednesday, January 8, 2024.
A group also stormed the Volta Aluminum Company Limited (VALCO) company’s premises.
These incidents came after some assailants stormed the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and destroyed a bust in honour of its executive director, COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah.
Proofread by Samuel Gitonga, Copy Editor at YEN.com.gh
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Source: YEN.com.gh
