A commission set up to investigate human rights abuses in Ghana has started work, with more than 120 petitions filed on the first day.

The National Reconciliation Commission (NRC), modelled on South Africa's truth and reconciliation commission, will look into allegations of torture and killings during the rule of Jerry John Rawlings.

We believe that our work will unify the country

Amua Sekyi NRC president

He seized power in military coups in 1979 and 1981, before stepping down in 2001.

President John Kufuor promised to set up the panel after defeating the candidate of Mr Rawlings' party in elections in December 2000.

Supporters of Mr Rawlings have accused the government of conducting a witch-hunt against officials of the former administration.

'Ashtray'

None of the complaints filed at the NRC can lead to a criminal prosecution but the nine-member panel can recommend compensation for victims.

One man showed a deformed ear and explained, "they used it as an ashtray," reports the French news agency, AFP.

Rawlings staged two military coups

"I was detained for seven years without charge or trial and kept in solitary confinement in various prisons," former army corporal Thomas Benefo, 52, told Reuters news agency.

At least 155 people, mostly soldiers accused of plotting coups, were executed between 1984 and 1992, when a multi-party political system was reintroduced, Reuters reports.

"We believe that our work will unify the country and enable us to live together as one people," NRC president Amua Sekyi told AFP.

The NRC estimates that it will receive 400 complaints by the end of September, when it starts investigating the cases filed.

It is expected to sit for about one year.