Work on compensation for electoral violence victims – Mahama to Ayine

President John Dramani Mahama has urged the Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dominic Ayine, to draft, as a matter of urgency, a document outlining a comprehensive framework for providing compensation to victims of electoral violence that characterized the 2020 elections.

Ahead of the 2024 General Election, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) called on the previous New Patriotic Party government to immediately carry out the recommendations of the Emile Short Commission of Enquiry to bring quick and long-lasting relief to the victims of the Ayawaso West Wuogon violence during the 2020 by-election.

A statement signed by the party’s General Secretary, Fifi Kwettey, said the incident has rendered the victims economically challenged in these difficult times Ghana is going through.

However, these calls fell on deaf ears even though it was the final year of the President Akufo-Addo-led administration.

This move comes in response to the growing concern over the persistent failure to secure convictions for electoral-related crimes, which threatens the country’s peace, security, and democratic resilience.

According to Ayine, the document seeks to address the physical, emotional, and psychological harm suffered by victims of electoral violence, providing them with the necessary support to rebuild their lives.

The initiative aims to bring solace to the victims and serve as a deterrent to those who would engage in violent behavior during elections.

The development follows a call by President John Dramani Mahama, who urged the Attorney General to prioritize determining fair compensation for families of those who lost their lives during the 2020 elections.

The comprehensive framework outlined in the document provides a detailed approach to compensating victims of electoral violence, taking into account the physical, emotional, and psychological harm they have endured.

This initiative underscores Ayine’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens’ rights. The document will be laid before the Cabinet for deliberation, and it is hoped that it will receive prompt consideration.