Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has responded to President John Dramani Mahama’s directive to investigate election-related deaths from the 2020 and 2024 polls, according to a report by The Chronicle Newspaper.
Special Investigative Team Assembled
Dr. Dampare has constituted a specialised investigative team at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters to spearhead the probe.
The team, chaired by Chief Superintendent Joseph Nanegbe, comprises experienced and skilled officers from the Ghana Police Service.
The IGP assured the President of his commitment to ensuring a thorough and transparent investigation.
“All necessary resources will be provided to the team to accomplish their task effectively,” the report quoted him as saying.
Building on Existing Efforts
The ongoing investigation aligns with initiatives Dr. Dampare introduced after assuming office in 2021.
Notably, the Cold Case Unit, established under his leadership at the CID, has been working on unresolved criminal cases, including election-related fatalities.
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The Chronicle report highlighted that the Cold Case Unit has already made significant progress in probing the 2020 election incidents, with some suspects currently facing prosecution.
Presidential Directive
President Mahama, in a letter dated January 10, 2025, instructed the IGP to thoroughly investigate the fatalities recorded during the 2020 and 2024 elections, emphasizing the importance of justice and accountability for the affected families and the nation.
Next Steps
The investigative team has been given a clear timeline to deliver its findings to the IGP.
The outcomes of the probe are expected to provide clarity on the events surrounding the deaths and to bolster public confidence in Ghana’s law enforcement and justice systems.
This development marks a renewed commitment to addressing electoral violence and ensuring justice for victims, a move that has been welcomed by various stakeholders and the general public.