Mahama Orders IGP Dampare to Investigate 2020, 2024 Electoral Killings

Jan 10, 2025 - 17:16

Accra, Ghana - 10 Jan, 2024 - President John Dramani Mahama has called for a thorough investigation into the deaths of eight Ghanaians during the 2020 and 2024 general elections, urging the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to leave no stone unturned in pursuit of justice.

In a statement issued on Friday 10 January, Dr. Callistus Mahama(Ph.D.), the President's Executive Secretary emphasized the need for accountability, stressing that the incidents have left a lasting scar on Ghana's democratic process.

To ensure a comprehensive and transparent investigation, President Mahama has proposed the establishment of a dedicated investigative taskforce, which will work closely with the Criminal Investigative Department (CID). The taskforce will focus solely on these cases, ensuring efficient handling and undivided attention.

Key Proposals for the Investigation

- Collaboration with Witnesses and Families: Conduct thorough interviews with eyewitnesses, victims' families, and other relevant individuals to gather crucial information.
- Review of Electoral Security Arrangements: Investigate the role and actions of security personnel deployed at affected polling stations to determine their involvement or oversight.
- Use of Forensic Evidence: Employ advanced forensic techniques to analyze physical evidence from crime scenes, including bullet casings, weaponry, and other materials.

“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.”

“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,'' portions of the statement read.

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