Political violence in Ghana continues to cast a shadow over the country’s democratic processes, raising serious concerns about the integrity of the judicial system. Despite the promise of peaceful conflict resolution through elections and free expression, the reality on the ground tells a different story.
Recent incidents of politically motivated attacks have not resulted in justice being served, leading to widespread frustration among citizens. The lack of serious consequences for perpetrators, often affiliated with the ruling party, has emboldened political vigilantism and eroded public trust in the justice system.
These cases, marked by lenient fines, dropped charges, and acquittals, highlight a growing crisis of accountability and transparency. The intersection of partisan rivalries, vigilantism, and media attacks during elections further complicates the issue.
One such case is the Ablekuma North Electoral Violence incident in 2025, where eight men were convicted for their role in violent disturbances during a parliamentary re-run. The lenient fine imposed on the convicted individuals sparked criticism from various quarters, including think tanks and civil society organisations.
In another instance, the invasion of UTV studios by thugs affiliated with the ruling party in 2023 highlighted the growing trend of attacks on media freedom. Despite being convicted, the perpetrators received minimal fines, raising concerns about the deterrence of future attacks on journalists.
The Delta Force courtroom attack in 2017, where charges were dropped against NPP-affiliated vigilantes, further underscored the challenges of political protectionism and impunity. The lack of accountability in such cases fuels public disillusionment and reinforces the perception of a biased justice system.
The Montie 3 case in 2016, involving threats against the judiciary, also sparked a debate on presidential pardons and judicial independence. The decision to release the offenders early raised questions about the balance of powers and the rule of law.
These incidents have eroded public trust in the judiciary, with a significant portion of Ghanaians expressing little to no confidence in the courts. The pattern of lenient sentences and acquittals in political cases sets a dangerous precedent, undermining the credibility of state institutions and democratic stability.
For Ghana to uphold its democratic principles and ensure accountability, the justice system must demonstrate consistency and decisiveness in holding perpetrators of political violence accountable. Only then can the country move towards a future where the rule of law prevails and citizens can trust in the integrity of their institutions.
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