CDD-Ghana calls for post-election peace and security

Accra, Jan. 5, GNA - The Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) on Wednesday expressed concern about the spate of violence that characterised the post-election period, particularly in Tamale and other areas of the Northern Region.

A statement signed by Dr Baffour Agyeman-Duah, Associate Executive Director, CDD-Ghana in Accra also commented on issues of manhandling of alleged perpetrators of the violence and in particular the death in military custody of Alhaji Issa Mobila, Regional Secretary of the Convention Peoples Party (CPP).

CDD said while it was pleased with the high degree of efficiency and professionalism displayed by both the police and military in the provision of security during the election period, it found it rather unfortunate that the military had become embroiled in the election-related death of Alhaji Mobila.

The statement said CDD was, however, encouraged by efforts made by the security agencies and the decision by the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the circumstances leading to the arrest and handing over of the suspect to the military.

It said the establishment of a Military Board of Enquiry to probe the death was also reassuring and expressed the hoped that the two enquiries would go further to examine all cases of human rights violations involving the security agencies during and after the elections.

"In the interest of healthy civil-military and police-community relations in a democratic society, it is imperative that members of the security agencies demonstrate respect for the rule of law and are mindful of their responsibilities to citizens."

The CDD said it was looking forward to decisive decisions that would bring those found guilty of human rights violations to face the full rigors of the law.

"This would be necessary to restore full public confidence to the security agencies."

The CDD appealed to all members and supporters of the various political parties to be tolerant and refrain from any acts of intimidation and violence.

It further entreated the security and law enforcement agencies to continue to act professionally to ensure peace and security.