The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has described the conviction of eight individuals involved in the Ablekuma North election re-run violence as a significant step toward accountability and the enforcement of the rule of law.
The eight were found guilty of attacking the former Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East and two others during the July 11 parliamentary election re-run at the Methodist Church Polling Station.
They also assaulted Chris Lloyd Nii Kwei, Deputy Organiser of the NPP, and Majeed Mohammed Saana, a trader from Alajo. The group pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to assault and three counts of assault.
Those convicted include Jijani Mahmudu, a driver from Mamobi; Prince Dzakpasu, a businessman from Newtown; Anas Mohammed, an estate developer from Lapaz; Mohammed Hamda, a mechanic from Alajo; Darko Otibu Samuel, a businessman from Amasaman; Musah Muntari, a station manager from Mallam Atta; Ali Saeed, a businessman from Fadama; and Al Mohammed Abubakar, a private security officer from Alajo.
The convicts were sentenced on their own plea before a court presided over by Isaac Addo. Sentencing has been deferred to Friday, August 29, with each granted bail of GH₵80,000 and one surety.
Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show, MFWA Executive Director, Sulemana Barimah, said the convictions mark progress in ensuring justice in politically related violence but stressed the importance of waiting for the final judgment.
“We have to wait for the sentencing because that is where we are going to get the ultimate decision of the court. At this stage, we don’t know what will happen… but what is gratifying is the fact that we’ve seen these people facing prosecution,” he said.
Mr. Barimah contrasted the current situation with past incidents where political interference undermined justice:
“In the past, the situation was different. We even had a situation where people, on the basis of political party affiliation, had the courage to storm a court in Kumasi to free their colleagues who were standing trial. So this is certainly a departure from what had happened in the past.”
He emphasized that the case sends a clear message that political power cannot shield anyone from accountability.
“This should send a signal to everyone that it doesn’t matter that your party is in power. If you commit a crime, you will be dealt with, and the law will be enforced. This is what we need for our democracy and our country to grow,” he added.
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Source: myjoyonline.com
