In a significant ruling by the Circuit Court in Accra, eight individuals have been convicted for their involvement in an assault on a former Member of Parliament (MP) for Awutu Senya East, Hawa Koomson, and two others during the Ablekuma North parliamentary election re-run. The incident occurred on July 11, 2025, at the Methodist Church Polling Station.
The convicted individuals—Jijani Mahmudu, Prince Dzakpasu, Anas Mohammed, Mohammed Hamda, Darko Otibu Samuel, Musah Muntari, Ali Saeed, and Al Mohammed Abubakar—pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to assault and three counts of assault. Their victims included Hawa Koomson, Deputy Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chris Lloyd Nii Kwei, and Majeed Mohammed Saana, a trader from Alajo.
Background of the Case
According to Chief Inspector Jonas Lawer, the prosecutor in the case, the complainants—members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP)—were present at the Ablekuma North re-run parliamentary elections on June 11, 2025. While visiting various polling centres, they arrived at the Methodist Church Polling Station where they were attacked by the accused individuals.
Hawa Koomson and Majeed Mohammed Saana were assaulted first but were rescued by security personnel stationed at the polling centre. Despite this intervention, the accused proceeded to attack Chris Lloyd Nii Kwei without provocation. The victims were subsequently taken to Odorkor Police Station and the Regional CID/AR to lodge formal complaints. Police Medical Forms were issued to the complainants, enabling them to seek medical treatment for their injuries.
Following investigations into the incident, the accused individuals were arrested and charged with conspiracy to assault and assault. However, during their caution statements, all eight denied the allegations against them.
Court Proceedings
The accused appeared before the Circuit Court presided over by Judge Isaac Addo and were convicted on their own plea. Sentencing has been deferred to Friday, August 29, 2025. In the interim, bail has been granted to each of the accused in the sum of GHC 80,000 with one surety.
Implications of the Verdict
This case underscores the importance of maintaining peace and decorum during election processes. Acts of violence not only threaten the integrity of democratic systems but also jeopardize public safety and trust in governance. The swift action by law enforcement and the judiciary serves as a reminder that such acts will not be tolerated.
As sentencing approaches, this case will likely serve as a precedent for deterring election-related violence in Ghana. The court’s decision reflects its commitment to upholding justice and ensuring accountability for actions that undermine democratic principles.
Conclusion
The conviction of these eight individuals marks a pivotal moment in addressing electoral violence in Ghana. It is crucial for stakeholders—including political parties, security agencies, and citizens—to work collectively to foster an environment of peace and respect during elections. As Ghana continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, incidents like these must be met with firm legal consequences to ensure that democracy thrives without intimidation or violence.
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Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrime
