The Accra Circuit Court, presided over by His Honour Isaac Addo, has convicted and sentenced eight individuals for their involvement in acts of violence during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun election.
The convicts — Mohammed Abubakari (32), Tijani Mahamudu (38), Prince Dzakpasu (39), Anas Mohammed (42), Mohammed Hamda (35), Darko Otibu Samuel (33), Musah Muntari (46), and Ali Saeed alias Bomba (43) — all pleaded guilty to four counts of assault. They were each fined 500 penalty units (₵6,000), and in default, will serve 24 months’ imprisonment.
Judge’s Warning Against Electoral Violence
In delivering the sentence, Justice Isaac Addo emphasized the grave dangers of electoral violence, warning that it could destabilize the nation. He commended the convicts for showing remorse and not wasting the court’s time but urged them to become advocates against political violence.
“The effect of electoral violence can collapse or destroy a country. I call on the youth, especially the convicts, to champion peace during elections,” the judge cautioned.
Defense Lawyers Call Verdict a ‘Win’
Lawyers for the accused persons welcomed the ruling, describing it as a fair outcome. They argued that their clients acted in self-defense during the incident.
Background of the Case
The incident occurred on July 11, 2025, during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun. The complainants — Mavis Hawa Koomson (former Fisheries Minister), Majeed Mohammed Sanaa, and Chris Lloyd Nii Kwei, all members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) — were monitoring polling stations when violence erupted.
At the Methodist Church Polling Station, Hawa Koomson and Nii Kwei were allegedly attacked by the convicts. Security personnel intervened to rescue them, but Majeed Sanaa was also assaulted without provocation.
The victims lodged complaints at the Odorkor Police Station and the Greater Accra Regional CID, where they were issued medical forms and treated at the hospital. Initially, the accused denied the charges in their caution statements but later admitted guilt in court.
Key Takeaway
The ruling reinforces the judiciary’s zero tolerance for electoral violence in Ghana, serving as a reminder ahead of future elections that acts of political intimidation and assault will be met with strict legal consequences.
