Ghana’s fourth republic has been plagued by negative acts of political vigilantism since 1992. To address this issue, the Vigilantism and Related Offenses Act of 2019 (Act 999) was passed to disband and criminalize political vigilantism. The Act aims to promote peace and stability in the country’s political landscape, particularly during elections.
The Ghana Vigilantism and Related Offenses Act of 2019 prescribes various punishments for individuals found guilty of engaging in vigilantism and related activities. Here are some key penalties:
– Instigating or Soliciting Vigilantism: 10-15 years’ imprisonment
– Facilitating or Encouraging Vigilantism: 10-15 years’ imprisonment
– Concealing a Vigilante: 10-15 years’ imprisonment
– Participation in Vigilante Groups with Offensive Weapons: 10-25 years imprisonment
– Formation, Organization, or Promotion of Vigilante Groups: 5-15 years’ imprisonment
– Membership or Participation in Vigilante Groups: 5-15 years’ imprisonment
– Funding Vigilante Groups: 5-15 years’ imprisonment
– Land Guards with Offensive Weapons: 10-25 years’ imprisonment
– Galamsey (Illegal Mining):
– Minimum Sentence: 15 years
– Maximum Sentence: 25 years
– Foreigners: 20-25 years’ imprisonment
These penalties aim to deter individuals from engaging in vigilantism and related activities, promoting peace and stability in Ghana’s political landscape.
The Ablekuma North Rerun Elections: A Case Study
The Ablekuma North rerun elections, which took place on July 11, 2023, were marred by violence and intimidation. The elections were characterized by violence led by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), resulting in assaults and disruptions at polling stations. A journalist was even slapped by a police officer during the elections, highlighting the need for greater protection for media personnel during elections. Some NPP sympathizers were beaten without provocation .
The Impact of the Act
Despite the passage of the Vigilantism and Related Offenses Act, vigilantism continues to be a significant problem in Ghana. The Ablekuma North rerun elections demonstrate that more needs to be done to prevent vigilantism and ensure peaceful elections. The Act’s effectiveness depends on strict enforcement and public awareness.
Challenges
Several challenges have been identified that hinder the effectiveness of the Act. These include:
– Lack of Trust: Mutual distrust among political parties and a lack of trust in security agencies have been identified as critical challenges that disrupt the process of democratization and political security.
– Enforcement: The Act’s effectiveness relies on security agencies enforcing its provisions without fear or favour.
– Awareness Deficit: There exists an awareness deficit on Act 999 among some members of vigilante groups, which raises concerns about the Act’s effectiveness in curbing vigilantism.
The Way Forward
To address these challenges, it’s essential to:
– Strengthen Enforcement: Empower security agencies to enforce the Act without fear or favour.
– Public Awareness: Continue education and sensitization of political parties, security agencies, and the general public on the provisions of the Act.
– Address Underlying Causes: Address the root causes of vigilantism, including unemployment, poverty, and exclusion, to prevent its resurgence.
The Vigilantism and Related Offenses Act of 2019 has been a crucial step towards promoting peace and stability in Ghana’s political landscape. However, its effectiveness depends on strict enforcement and public awareness. The Ablekuma North rerun elections demonstrate that more needs to be done to prevent vigilantism and ensure peaceful elections. By working together, Ghanaians can build a more peaceful and stable society, ensuring that future elections are free from violence and intimidation.