A private legal practitioner, Lawyer Selikem Timothy Donkor, has criticised President-elect John Dramani Mahama for failing to publicly condemn the vandalism and killings that occurred during the 2024 general elections.

The private legal practitioner raised the concerns on the Adanu Morning Show on Ho FM 92.5, hosted by Togbe Ahorgo I, where he argued that while President-elect John Mahama urged the youth not to channel their frustrations into criminal activities, in his victory speech, this message was insufficient.

Mr. Donkor emphasised that Mr. Mahama had both the right and the opportunity to strongly condemn the acts of violence and destruction, but instead, he only encouraged his supporters to redirect their energy towards positive and constructive endeavours.

He stressed that a firm condemnation was necessary to show leadership and responsibility, urging Mahama to denounce these actions outright, regardless of the political affiliation of those involved.

Mr. Donkor compared the situation to events in the United States, where President Donald Trump faced similar criticism for not condemning violence by his supporters, noting that such behaviour should not be tolerated.

He called for those responsible to face the full consequences of the law, warning that failure to address these issues would embolden others to act unlawfully.

Dr Harrison Belly, a lecturer at Ho Technical University, speaking on the same show, also agreed with the lawyer's position.

He stated that Mr. Mahama should have condemned the post-election violence during his first address to the nation in order to foster trust and confidence in his government.

Dr. Belly also urged the youth not to resort to violence, highlighting the importance of respecting the rule of law and safeguarding state property.

Source: Solomon Mensah-Ahiable