Investigate 2020, 2024 electoral killings – Mahama directs IGP

In the fulfilment of his campaign promises, President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, to immediately institute investigations into the deaths of fourteen (14) Ghanaians during the 2020 and 2024 general elections.

In a statement issued on January 10, the Executive Secretary to the President, Dr. Calistus Mahama, stated the need of ensuring justice is served in order to uphold accountability.

“I have been instructed by H.E. John Mahama, to formally request your office to initiate immediate investigations into the tragic deaths of Ghanaian citizens during the 2020/24 general elections. These incidents, which occurred in various parts of the country, have left a lasting scar on our democratic process, and it is imperative that justice is served for the victims and their families.” – The statement said

The President has also requested the IGP to establish a dedicated Investigative Taskforce within the Criminal Investigative Department (CID) to focus solely on 2020 and 2024 election killings.

Mr. Mahama equally directed the IGP to investigate the role and actions of security personnel deployed at the affected polling stations to determine their involvement or oversight.

“To ensure the investigations are comprehensive and transparent, we respectfully propose the following: 1. Establishment of a Dedicated Investigative Taskforce: Form a special taskforce within the CID to focus solely on these cases, ensuring undivided attention and efficient handling of this matter.

“2. Collaboration with Witnesses and Families: Conduct thorough interviews with eyewitnesses, victims’ families, and other relevant individuals who may provide crucial information.

“3. Review of Electoral Security Arrangements: Investigate the role and actions of security personnel deployed at the affected polling stations to determine their involvement or oversight.

“4. Use of Forensic Evidence: Employ advanced forensic techniques to analyze any physical evidence from the crime scenes, including bullet casings, weaponry, and other materials.”

If readers will recall, in the 2020 elections, some eight Ghanaians were killed at some polling stations. Also it has been reported that by the West Africa Centre for Counter Extremism (WACCE) that the 2024 general elections was one of the most violent and deadly in the 4th Republic, with six people losing their lives while others suffered various degrees of injuries.