The Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, has released alarming data on election-related violence in Ghana, confirming that 15 people lost their lives and 40 others were injured across the 2020 and 2024 general election cycles.
Presenting a nationwide summary of the cases, the Minister described the trend as “deeply concerning” and called for urgent, collective efforts to safeguard Ghana’s democratic stability.
According to Mr. Muntaka, the 2020 elections alone accounted for eight deaths and 34 injuries across six major constituencies, including Techiman South, Odododiodio, Ablekuma Central, Banda, Dormaa West, and Savelugu.
He highlighted Techiman South and Odododiodio as the worst affected, where violent clashes between rival groups resulted in multiple fatalities and severe injuries.
The Interior Minister expressed particular concern over the high casualty rates in urban constituencies, noting that such violence “leaves a dark stain on Ghana’s electoral process.”
Despite heightened security measures and repeated appeals for peace, the 2024 polls also experienced outbreaks of violence, resulting in seven deaths and six injuries across Awutu Senya, Tolon, Damango, Nkoranza South, Offinso North, and Ahafo Ano South-West.
“The circumstances of each case vary, but nearly all involve the use of firearms during confrontations between supporters of the two major political parties and instances where security personnel resorted to the use of live ammunition or warning shots as a means of crowd control,” the minister stated during a briefing.
The cumulative figures, he explained, underline ongoing security challenges in Ghana’s elections, particularly in high-tension constituencies.
In response, the Interior Ministry, working with the Ghana Police Service, has intensified investigations, strengthened rapid response mechanisms, and enhanced community engagement to prevent further escalation.
Mr. Muntaka assured the public that all perpetrators of electoral violence will face prosecution. He also announced the creation of a multi-stakeholder task force to propose reforms aimed at improving election security and accountability.
“No election is worth a single Ghanaian life,” he stressed. “We call on political parties, civil society, and the media to join hands in promoting peace before, during, and after elections.”
The Asawase MP also emphasized the need for stronger voter education initiatives and early warning systems to de-escalate tensions at polling stations. He urged citizens to report any suspicious behavior and to avoid acts of provocation.
Source: Adomonline