For too long, citizens, especially older women, have been victimized by witchcraft accusations in our country. This deeply rooted practice has led to untold suffering, discrimination, and violence. Act now to urge the President Nana Akufo-Addo to urgently sign the 2023 Anti-Witchcraft Bill into law to protect these vulnerable individuals.
What’s the problem?
The tragic case of Akua Denteh, a 90-year-old woman from Kafaba in the Savannah Region, is just one of the heart-wrenching examples of the dire consequences of witchcraft accusations. On 23 July 2020, she was brutally beaten to death after being accused of witchcraft. Unfortunately, hundreds of people who have been accused of witchcraft have endured torture, been driven out of their communities to live in seclusion in camps.
These accusations are often driven by superstition, envy and old beliefs, leading to severe human rights violations and abuses. The victims, mostly older women, face brutal attacks, displacement, and social exclusion. Such acts are in stark contrast to the values of justice, human dignity, and equality that Ghana represents.
The need for legislative action
The Anti-Witchcraft Bill, which has been carefully developed through extensive consultations with various stakeholders, aims to address this grave and urgent issue. This bill seeks to:
- Make it illegal to accuse individuals of witchcraft, thus deterring such actions through stringent penalties.
- Establish protective measures and support systems for those who have been accused, including safe havens, psychological support, and reintegration programmes into society.
- Implement nationwide campaigns to raise awareness amongst the public about the harmful impacts of witchcraft accusations and the importance of protecting human rights particularly for those who are vulnerable.
- Provide a clear legal pathway for victims to seek justice and compensation, thereby reinforcing the rule of law.
Our collective voice
We believe that signing the Anti-Witchcraft Bill into law will significantly enhance the protection of human rights in Ghana and demonstrate the country’s commitment to eradicating all forms of violence and discrimination. It will also align Ghana with international human rights standards.
What you can do to help
Together, let us stand in solidarity with the victims of witchcraft accusations. Add your voice to theirs: urge the President of Ghana to immediately sign the Anti-Witchcraft Bill into law to protect, save lives and affirm the values of compassion, justice, and equality that underpin Ghanaian’s society. Your action could help bring back dignity and justice to all those that have been unfairly accused of witchcraft.