Ghana, a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage and commitment to human rights, has a unique opportunity to strengthen its human rights record by assenting to the Witchcraft Bill.
This landmark legislation aims to protect individuals accused of witchcraft from human rights violations, ensuring their safety, dignity, and social inclusion.
The Witchcraft Bill is a response to the alarming trend of witchcraft accusations, which often lead to arbitrary arrests, torture, and even lynching.
These heinous acts are perpetuated against vulnerable groups, particularly older women and persons with disabilities, who are stigmatized and ostracized by their communities.
By assenting to the bill, the President of Ghana can demonstrate a firm commitment to upholding human rights and protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
Accordingly, Hon. Francis Xavier Sosu, the lead sponsor of the Witchcraft Bill, has expressed confidence that the President will sign the bill into law as a parting gesture to the people of Ghana, paving the way for a significant milestone in the country’s history.
He asserted that President Akufo-Addo will ultimately sign the bill into law, making amends for the controversy it sparked, and redeeming his tenure before it comes to a close, despite the intense criticism and backlash from citizens.
“I am still very hopeful that with all these conversations, the President will be convinced to rescind his decision and assent to the bill so this becomes one of his legacies before he leaves office. If you claim to be a human rights person and all that and over the years and this is how you end your tenure of office, that will be an anti-climax to whatever you have always claimed to be”.
Hon. Francis Xavier Sosu
Hon. Sosu emphasized that if President Akufo-Addo fails to sign the bill into law before his end of tenure, he is fully prepared to reintroduce the legislation in Parliament and tirelessly pursue its passage until it becomes a reality.
A Step Towards Global Human Rights Compliance
Furthermore, the bill’s significance extends beyond Ghana’s borders, as it aligns with international human rights standards.
By ratifying various human rights instruments, Ghana has pledged to protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Assenting to the Witchcraft Bill would be a tangible manifestation of this commitment, showcasing Ghana’s dedication to human rights on the global stage.
The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) called on President Akufo-Addo to address any outstanding concerns and take prompt action to sign the Anti-Witchcraft Bill into law, thereby ensuring its swift enactment.
“In light of the foregoing, the Commission respectfully urges His Excellency the President of the Republic to take urgent steps, including any legislative measures, that will resolve any constitutional concerns raised by H.E. the President in order to assent to the Criminal Offences Amendment Bill, 2023 (Anti-Witchcraft Bill)”.
“It has become an albatross around the neck of the country for decades. Its dire consequences on the rights of Ghanaian women are beyond debate. It also undermines national efforts towards the realization of the SDGs particularly Goal 5 on gender equality”.
Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice
As such, CHRAJ pointed out that by assenting to the bill, Ghana can significantly strengthen the safeguards for this vulnerable group, while also bolstering its reputation as a champion of human rights and further solidifying its commitment to upholding the dignity and well-being of all its citizens.
The Witchcraft Bill also provides a framework for investigating and prosecuting cases of witchcraft-related human rights abuses, promoting accountability and justice.
This ensures that perpetrators are brought to book, and victims receive the necessary support and redress.
Thus, assenting to the Witchcraft Bill is a crucial step towards human rights protection in Ghana.
As Ghana continues to evolve as a beacon of democracy and human rights in Africa, the Witchcraft Bill represents a significant milestone in its journey towards a more just and equitable society.
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