Accra: The Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) says perpetrators of past and present electoral violence's should be penalised as part of measures to end the brutalities. This was contained in a statement signed by Rev. Dr. Lt. Col. Bliss D. K. Agbeko (Rtd), Chairman, CCG, and Rev. Dr. Cyril G. K. Fayose, General Secretary, CCG on Monday.
According to Ghana News Agency, the CCG emphasized that perpetrators of electoral violence, both past and present, must be identified, arrested, and prosecuted without fear or favour. They stressed that justice must be visible to restore public confidence and act as a deterrent for future violations. In addition to prosecuting perpetrators, the CCG urged the Joint Security Task Force to adopt a proactive, coordinated approach to election security, asserting that Ghanaians deserve to vote freely and safely, without fear, intimidation, or harm.
Furthermore, the CCG called on the government to provide appropriate compensation and support to the families of those who were killed or injured during the violence. They also proposed the erection of a national memorial in front of Parliament House, bearing the inscription: 'Martyrs of Democracy - Never Again!' This would serve as a lasting reminder of the cost of political conflict and the importance of peace.
The CCG's proposals were a reaction to electoral violence that marred the rerun of elections in 19 polling stations in the Ablekuma North constituency, as well as deaths and injuries recorded in both the 2020 and 2024 elections. They highlighted the necessity of implementing these measures, stating that electoral violence, regardless of who was in power or which party was involved, is a direct attack on the foundations of democracy. Such violence erodes public trust, undermines institutions, and threatens the peace cherished by Ghanaians.
The CCG warned that allowing impunity to fester would only deepen public suspicion that democratic institutions are compromised and that acts of violence are tolerated by those in authority. They called on the government, political parties, security agencies, civil society, faith-based organizations, and the public to unite in protecting Ghana's democracy and upholding the rule of law. They emphasized that 'Ghana belongs to all of us. Let us not allow partisan interests to destroy the peace, unity, and democratic values we have worked hard to build.'
Meanwhile, the CCG commended President John Dramani Mahama for referring a report on electoral violence to the Attorney-General for legal review but urged him to make the report public and ensure all those responsible were held accountable.
