The family of Major Maxwell Mahama, a Ghanaian soldier who was lynched by a mob in 2017, has finally received justice after a court sentenced 12 of his killers to life imprisonment.
The family, who had waited for over six years for the trial to conclude, met the verdict delivered by a seven-member jury on Monday with mixed emotions.
Major Mahama, who was then 32 years old, was leading a military detachment to combat illegal mining in the Central Region of Ghana. A group of residents who mistook him for an armed robber attacked him on May 29, 2017. Despite having a gun on him, he was beaten, stoned, and burned to death.
The gruesome murder sparked national outrage and condemnation, prompting the government to launch a crackdown on illegal mining.
The trial of the suspects, however, faced several challenges and delays, mainly due to the involvement of a jury system, which the Attorney General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, described as faulty and outdated.
According to the Attorney General, who spoke to the family after the ruling, the government is taking measures to reform the criminal justice system and abolish or vary the jury system, which he said was responsible for the prolonged trial.
He stated that the jury system caused unnecessary adjournments and complications. As an example, he mentioned a treason case that concluded in two years without a jury.
The family of Major Mahama, while grateful for the verdict, also expressed their dissatisfaction with the jury system and the length of the trial. They said they had endured a lot of pain and trauma during the process, and called for a review of the system to prevent such delays in the future.
Veronica Bamford, the mother of the late soldier, praised her son for his restraint and professionalism.
She said her son was a hero and a martyr, who sacrificed his life for his country.
The family also thanked the Attorney General, the prosecution team, the media, and the public for their support and solidarity throughout the trial.
The court acquitted and discharged four of the accused persons, as the jury found them not guilty.
The case of Major Mahama has raised questions about the state of law and order, human rights, and mob justice in Ghana, where such incidents are not uncommon.
The government and civil society groups have called for more public education and sensitization on the dangers and consequences of taking the law into one’s own hands.
They have also urged the security agencies to be more vigilant and proactive in protecting the lives and property of citizens, especially those who serve in the public interest.
The family of Major Mahama has also set up a foundation in his memory, to support the welfare and education of his widow and two children, and to promote peace and harmony in the society.
The family said they hope that the legacy of Major Mahama will inspire others to uphold the values of patriotism, integrity, and service, and to work together for the development and progress of Ghana.
Source: Modern Ghana
