Mahama Renews Demand for Justice After 2024 Election Violence
President Mahama Condemns 2024 Election Violence, Demands Justice and Compensation for Victims
Former President John Dramani Mahama has issued a powerful condemnation of the acts of violence that tainted Ghana’s 2024 general elections, calling for urgent accountability, justice, and compensation for the victims and their families.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Post-Election Conference organized by the National Peace Council in Koforidua, Eastern Region, Mahama emphasized that violence has no place in Ghana’s democracy and must never be allowed to define the electoral process.
Accountability and Justice for Victims of Electoral Violence
President Mahama revealed that the Attorney General is in the final stages of preparing a detailed report for presentation to Cabinet, which will pave the way for the payment of compensation to victims of the December 2024 electoral violence. He stressed the urgency of supporting those affected and restoring their trust in the democratic system.
“It is important that those who suffered physical harm, trauma, or lost loved ones during the elections are not forgotten. We owe them not just compassion, but also justice and fair compensation,” Mahama stated.
He also reminded the Inspector General of Police (IGP) of his earlier calls for a thorough and impartial investigation into the violent incidents that occurred in several constituencies. Mahama urged the Ghana Police Service to expedite their investigations and ensure that all perpetrators, regardless of political affiliation, are held accountable.
“Political Differences Must Never Justify Violence”
In his keynote speech, Mahama reiterated a strong message of peace and unity, warning against the normalization of political violence in Ghana’s electoral culture. He maintained that political competition must remain civil and issue-based, never descending into aggression or intimidation.
“Political differences must never be a reason for violence,” he stressed. “We all have a collective responsibility to protect public peace and security.”
His message resonated with the audience of government officials, political leaders, civil society groups, and international partners gathered at the conference, many of whom echoed the need for institutional reforms to prevent future electoral violence.
Post-Election Conference: Strengthening Democracy and Social Cohesion
The conference, themed “Dialoguing for a Stronger Democracy and Social Cohesion,” served as a platform for stakeholders to reflect on the conduct of the 2024 elections, assess lessons learned, and chart a course for enhancing electoral integrity in the future.
The event was co-funded by the European Union, the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It featured panel discussions and breakout sessions that covered electoral security, media conduct, civil society engagement, and institutional accountability.
Participants agreed that while Ghana continues to be a beacon of democracy in West Africa, challenges such as electoral violence, misinformation, and distrust in electoral institutions pose significant threats to democratic consolidation.
Mahama Applauds Peace Council, Urges Oversight of Electoral Commission
Mahama took the opportunity to commend the National Peace Council for its consistent efforts in promoting peace before, during, and after the elections. He noted the Council’s pivotal role in dialogue facilitation and conflict resolution.
However, he called for increased stakeholder involvement in monitoring the operations of the Electoral Commission (EC) to ensure greater transparency, neutrality, and public confidence in the institution’s processes.
“Peace-building must be matched with robust oversight of the institutions that manage our democracy, especially the Electoral Commission,” Mahama said. “Only then can we prevent the reoccurrence of violence and voter apathy.”
Civil Society and Political Actors Must Collaborate
The former president also appealed to all political parties, civil society organisations, religious leaders, and the media to work together to strengthen Ghana’s democratic institutions and uphold the rule of law.
He warned that Ghana’s reputation as a stable democracy in the sub-region could be undermined if electoral violence is not adequately addressed.
“Democracy is not just about elections; it is about ensuring justice, accountability, and inclusiveness,” Mahama added. “We must not allow fear and violence to overshadow the will of the people.”
He encouraged proactive dialogue among political actors and civic leaders, especially in the lead-up to future elections, to foster mutual understanding and reduce tensions.
A Call for National Unity and Forward Movement
President Mahama’s address served as both a reflection on the flaws of the 2024 elections and a rallying call for national unity. His appeal for justice and compensation for victims highlights the broader need for institutional reform, strengthened electoral laws, and renewed public trust in Ghana’s democratic systems.
As Ghana prepares for future electoral cycles, Mahama’s message serves as a reminder that peaceful and credible elections are the foundation of any functioning democracy. With stronger stakeholder cooperation, enhanced oversight, and a commitment to justice, the country can continue to uphold its democratic credentials and serve as a model for the rest of Africa.
Mahama condemns violence during the 2024 elections and calls for justice and compensation.
Attorney General finalizing report to present to Cabinet for victim compensation.
Urges IGP and Ghana Police to fast-track investigations into electoral violence.
Praises National Peace Council but calls for increased oversight of Electoral Commission.
Calls on political parties and civil society to work together to prevent future violence.
