Minority presents petition to Mahama over Ablekuma North violence

The Minority in Parliament has presented a petition to President John Dramani Mahama to take swift action on the violent incidents that occurred during the just-ended Ablekuma North election rerun.

In addition to the petition, they cited the continuous environmental devastation caused by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

The petition was submitted on Thursday, July 24, at the Jubilee House and was received on behalf of the President by Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Stan Xoese Dogbe.

The action by the Minority follows their walkout during the presentation of the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review in Parliament. Clad in black, the Minority Caucus marched from Parliament to the seat of government to present the petition, citing what they described as a breakdown of democratic order and worsening environmental governance under the previous administration.

They cited the Ablekuma North by-election, held on July 11, as a major concern, alleging widespread violence, intimidation, and attacks on electoral officials, journalists, and party agents. According to the Caucus, polling centres such as St. Peter’s Methodist Church, Awoshie DVLA, and Asiedu Gyedu Memorial School recorded incidents of violence involving individuals allegedly posing as security personnel.

The petition also raised red flags over the resurgence of illegal mining activities across the country. The Minority expressed grave concern over the pollution of major rivers, including the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin, attributing the situation to weak enforcement and poor coordination among state agencies.

They said the current legal framework, particularly Legislative Instrument 2462, limits the authority of local governments to regulate small-scale mining, thereby undermining accountability and local oversight.

Among their demands, the Minority is calling for an independent investigation into the Ablekuma North by-election violence, prosecution of the perpetrators, and the dismissal of individuals found complicit. They are also demanding a formal apology to victims of the attacks.

On the environmental front, they are pushing for the repeal of L.I. 2462, the establishment of a national Environmental Recovery Programme, and the creation of an Independent Stakeholder Commission to oversee mining regulation and environmental protection.

Receiving the petition, Mr. Dogbe assured the minority that the President would consider their petition and respond in due course.