By-election violence: Emile Short Commission sworn-in

Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has sworn in the three-member commission tasked with investigating the violence during the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election.

At the ceremony Friday, Dr. Bawumia lauded composition of the commission saying that “I don’t know anyone who can really question the integrity of the commission.”

He also assured them “that all the necessary arrangements and logistics shall be provided” to make their work smooth.

“I wish you the very best in the enquiry and the nation is grateful,” he said.

Chairperson of the commission, Justice Francis Emile Short, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the national interest.

He promised that they would carry out their mandate “in an objective and fair manner.”

“We would like to urge all and sundry to give us the support we need to find a credible and lasting solution to the phenomenon of electoral violence and vigilante groups,” he added.

The Vice President on his part highlighted that fact that such a commission was historic since it was the first time a Presidential commission was being inaugurated to investigate election-related violence.

“…it shows a difference to deal with this issue fundamentally,” he said.

The Commission was set up by the Vice President on Wednesday with backing from President Nana Akufo-Addo who is out of the jurisdiction.

They are expected to investigate circumstances surrounding the violence at La Bawaleshie, in the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency during the January 31 by-election.

Armed men clothed in National Security apparel stormed the residence of the NDC candidate, Delali Kwesi Brempong and allegedly attacked supporters of the opposition.

Eyewitnesses say the men engaged in a shooting spree, injuring at least six persons.

The Minister of State in charge of National Security, Bryan Acheampong has said the men were deployed as part of an operation although he didn’t disclose such.

The men have, however, been accused of being members of the governing NPP affiliated vigilante group, Invincible forces.

Source: Myjoyonline.com