In 2020 and 2024, President John Dramani Mahama has directed Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare to investigate deaths during Ghana's general elections.


In an official letter to the IGP, Mahama described the killings as a "lasting scar on our democratic process" and insisted that accountability is essential to preserving the integrity of the nation's election system.



Six additional people were slain in 2024, and at least eight individuals were killed in the 2020 elections, according to reports. In his orders, the President emphasized the importance of carrying out a thorough inquiry into these killings to ensure that justice is served.

A culture of impunity would emerge if the violence is not handled, endangering the country's democracy, Mahama said during the National Muslim Prayer and Thanksgiving event in Accra on January 10.



As part of his call to action, the President requested that a special task team be formed within the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incidents.



In order to properly understand what happened, the CID will gather eyewitness testimonies and speak with the relatives of the victims. To examine any physical evidence, including firearms and shot casings, the task team will also perform forensic analysis and evaluate security protocols at the affected polling stations.

Mahama urged the transparency and comprehensiveness of these investigations and restated his commitment to justice.

As the Office of the President has committed to regularly updating the public, transparency is essential throughout the process. The investigation aims to determine the reason behind the violence and ensure future free and fair elections.

Source: Ghanaweb