Ghana’s Minority Caucus is demanding President John Mahama’s immediate intervention in the electoral violence that characterised the July 11 parliamentary rerun election in Ablekuma North.
The MPs presented a petition to the presidency, accusing state security institutions of complicity and calling for the dismissal of key public officials.
They also demand an independent Commission of Inquiry to investigate the violence and recommend reforms.
The Caucus warns that the president’s silence or inaction may be seen as tacit endorsement of the violence.
The petition highlighted two concerns:
1. Electoral Violence During the Ablekuma North Rerun Election
2. The Surge in Galamsey Activities and Its Environmental Impact
1. Electoral Violence in Ablekuma North
The caucus referenced the attacks on political opponents, impersonation of security personnel, and assault on journalists and electoral officials.
Key incidents included:
The assault of NPP figures such as Mavis Hawa Koomson, Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie, and Dakoa Newman
Armed men in fake security uniforms operating at polling stations such as St. Peter’s Society Methodist Church, Awoshie DVLA, and Asiedu Gyedu Memorial School
Journalists from JoyNews and GHOne TV being physically attacked—one reportedly by a police officer
Violence involving the Ghana Police Service, particularly at Awoshie DVLA School supplies
The Minority also accused two senior government officials—Dr. Hanna Bissiw, CEO of the Minerals Development Fund, and Mr. Malik Basintale, Acting CEO of the Youth Employment Agency—of publicly endorsing or glorifying the violence on social media and in public commentary.
They therefore want:
The immediate dismissal of both officials
An independent investigation into the Ghana Police Service, especially the role of Chief Superintendent Fredrick Lumor Senanu
The arrest and prosecution of all perpetrators
A Commission of Inquiry under Article 278 to probe the violence and recommend reforms
2. Galamsey and Environmental Crisis
On the illegal mining, the minority said the situation was an “ecological emergency” and “a national betrayal.”
The minority cited data from A Rocha Ghana and Global Forest Watch showing:
A 17% increase in river turbidity
A 9% loss in forest cover in just six months
It named key rivers such as the Pra, Offin, Ankobra, and Birim as being under serious threat.
In particular, it referenced contamination of the Yonkamba stream in Bole Bamboi—President Mahama’s hometown—as symbolic of the crisis.
The Minority accused government and party officials of complicity, alleging collusion between district chief executives, security officers, and illegal miners.
They are demanding:
A state of emergency in all illegal mining zones
A repeal of Legislative Instrument 2462, which they say enables illegal mining
Swift prosecution of all public officials found complicit
The formation of an independent national oversight body involving civil society, traditional leaders, and religious groups
The launch of a National Environmental Recovery Programme, focused on afforestation and river restoration
Meanwhile, the Minority has underscored the need for President Mahama to act decisively to preserve peace, uphold the rule of law, and restore faith in Ghana’s democratic institutions.
“May history remember this moment not for your silence, but for your courage to act,” the petition, signed by Deputy Minority Leader Hon. Patricia Appiagyei, stated.
The petition has been copied to the Diplomatic Corps, civil society organisations, and major international bodies, including the UNDP and the European Union.
By Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
