President Mahama orders Dampare to investigate 2020 and 2024 election-related deaths

The President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama has, through his Executive Secretary written to the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, to request an investigation into the deaths recorded during the 2020 and 2024 elections.

In a letter dated Friday, January 10, 2025, the presidency stated that it has become imperative to serve justice to the victims and families of the deaths.

“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 letter said.

As part of a number of proposed measures to ensure a comprehensive and transparent investigation, the president asked the IGP to establish a dedicated investigative taskforce, collaborate with witnesses and their families, review electoral security arrangements, and collaborate with electoral and civic bodies.

“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.

"5. Collaboration with Electoral and Civic Bodies: Work with the Electoral Commission and other relevant agencies to review reports from the 2020 and 2024 elections for additional context,” the letter outlined.

The president also asked the IGP to issue periodic updates on the progress of the investigation to maintain public trust and transparency.

“To maintain public trust and ensure transparency, we kindly request 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.

“We are confident in the competence and professionalism of the Criminal Investigations Department and trust that your efforts will yield the necessary results to bring justice to the victims and their families while preserving the integrity of Ghana's democratic process.

“We assure you of the utmost support should you require any additional support or information from us,” the letter added.

While Ghana has largely enjoyed peaceful elections over the years, the 2020 and 2024 general elections recorded some violent incidents, which led to deaths.

Available reports put the deaths recorded in the 2020 elections around eight, while the number of deaths recorded in 2024 is reported to be about six.

The National Democratic Congress, which assumed power on January 7, 2025, after winning the December 7, 2024 elections, had accused the erstwhile New Patriotic Party (NPP) government of failing to ensure justice delivery on the matter.

President Mahama orders IGP to investigate 2020, 2024 election deaths.#ghanaweb#ghanawebtv pic.twitter.com/USYqOZs5Ul

— GhanaWeb (@TheGhanaWeb) January 10, 2025