The Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has called for investigations into unresolved cases of electoral violence from Ghana's 2020 and 2024 general elections. This demand highlights that lasting peace requires justice for victims and accountability for perpetrators. The violence resulted in 15 deaths and over 40 injuries across seven regions of Ghana.
Paul Kwabena Aborampah, CDD-Ghana Programmes Manager for Security Sector Governance, stated that affected families continue to suffer pain and trauma. He warned that memories of these incidents often resurface during subsequent election periods. This creates a significant risk of retaliation, undermining efforts to maintain social cohesion and stability.
This call comes amid persistent concerns about electoral violence marring Ghana's democratic process. A special investigative task force, formed by the Inspector General of Police, identified 12 key cases of violence. These incidents occurred in Greater Accra, Ashanti, Bono East, Savannah, Northern, Upper East, and Upper West regions. The investigations revealed that most incidents involved firearms during clashes between rival political party supporters.
Mr. Aborampah cited Ghana's post-military regime national reconciliation process as a model for healing. He noted that allowing victims to share their stories contributed to their satisfaction, even without financial compensation. He believes that investigating these cases and prosecuting perpetrators will provide similar closure and strengthen public trust.
Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak confirmed that authorities have identified 21 suspects in connection with the violence. Four suspects are currently on police bail, while five have been remanded into prison custody. Arrest warrants have been issued for the remaining individuals. Four cases are before the courts, with others under investigation or awaiting advice from the Attorney General's office.
Mr. Aborampah also expressed concern about ongoing political friction, which he believes extends beyond election cycles. He warned that continuous political attacks and personal criticisms divert attention from national development. This focus on personal disputes hinders efforts to improve citizens' livelihoods and overall governance.
CDD-Ghana believes that resolving these cases and holding perpetrators accountable will address grievances. This action will also strengthen public confidence in Ghana's democratic institutions. The government has committed to compensating bereaved families and victims of the electoral violence. The State will assume responsibility where specific perpetrators cannot be conclusively identified.
The Ministry has also pledged to implement recommendations from the task force report. These include improved crowd-control training for police officers and better coordination among security agencies. There will also be sustained education for political party executives and stakeholders on the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999). These measures aim to prevent future violence and ensure peaceful electoral processes.