President John Mahama has directed the police administration to launch probe into accusations of brutalities against ‘Let My Vote Count Alliance’ protestors.
The group was demanding the creation of a new voters register after the New Patriotic Party claimed it had uncovered over 70,000 foreign names on Ghana’s electoral roll.
According to reports, some of the protestors were beaten with horse whips and sustained injuries in the violence.
President Mahama described the brutalities as regrettable and unfortunate.
One of the demonstrators being assaulted by the police
The Police Service has justified their actions. In a statement signed by Public Affairs Director DCOP Rev. David Nenyi Ampah Bennin, the police said the protesters violated the Public Order Act.
But speaking at a grand durbar of chiefs and people of Asogli Traditional Area in Ho to climax their annual Yam Festival, the President said it was a dent on the democratic credentials of the country and asked the police to investigate the matter.
“Much to my regret, I learnt that a few of the demonstrators were beaten or hurt in the ensuing stampede that occurred. This is a terrible situation and one that should absolutely not have happened.
“I’ve held discussions with the police authority and urged the command to review the unfortunate events of last Wednesday in line with policies and procedures that officers are expected to follow in response to incidents of this sort”, he added.
President Mahama said confrontations of such nature should not occur in a nation that prides itself on the strength and stability of democracy.
Meanwhile, organisers of the demonstration say they will drag the police to court over human right abuses.
They also served notice that they will be returning to the streets next week with another protest to present a petition directly to the Electoral Commission.
