Limited registration: Punish those engaging in violent activities severely – Former MP

Ghanaian politician and retired military officer, Derek Oduro, has highlighted the necessity for individuals who incite election-related violence to be dealt with legally.

The former Deputy Defence Minister stated that violence, intimidation, and lawlessness cannot secure an election victory.

He stressed that elections are won on policies and programmes that resonate with the electorate.

He was commenting on the instances of violence reported during the ongoing limited registration exercise. He questioned why such an exercise would lead to this degree of lawlessness and impunity.

He also lamented the arrest of Collins Dauda, the Member of Parliament for Asutifi South, due to his alleged involvement in disturbances at Kukuom in the Ahafo Region during the Limited Voter Registration Exercise on Saturday, May 11, 2024.

According to reports, one-person sustained injuries during the turmoil and is currently receiving medical care.

Condemning the incident, he expressed bewilderment at the MP's alleged connection to the event.

Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, he asserted, "We can terminate these violent incidents if we impose severe sanctions on those involved.

"We need to punish them in a way that will deter anyone planning to engage in lawlessness during election-related activities."

He also called for a comprehensive investigation into the Kukuom incident.

He warned that failing to address these issues decisively could lead to significant problems in the future, potentially affecting general elections and presidential inaugurations.

Derek Oduro emphasized the importance of law enforcement agencies taking action against the perpetrators.

"If the Ghana Police Service intends to address these issues, they must do so professionally. If NPP supporters are causing these problems, they must be arrested.

"If the offenders are NDC, they must be arrested and prosecuted. No one should be exempt. This should serve as a precedent, and we must not allow influence peddling to free the offenders. They must be dealt with stringently.

"Our legal system must be enforced. Our electoral processes are regulated by laws. There are laws governing activities such as voter registration and elections. Violating these laws should lead to prosecution under our legal system.

"Our courts should also be ready to impose severe penalties on these offenders. They should not be handled leniently. Imposing substantial punishments will act as a deterrent to those who partake in similar unlawful acts. The penalties must be stringent," he advocated.