Amnesty International has called upon Ghana’s President John Mahama, recently inaugurated, to make human rights a cornerstone of his administration. They emphasize the need for addressing gender inequality, securing women’s rights, upholding peaceful assembly rights, and ensuring a healthy environment for all citizens. The plea was made on Tuesday, highlighting critical areas that demand the government’s attention to human rights issues. Additional details can be found in the coverage by JURIST.
Genevieve Partington, who serves as the Country Director of Amnesty International Ghana, remarked, “Now is the right time for the President and his government to make a clear commitment to prioritize and tackle these pressing human rights issues.”
Despite legislative efforts, female participation in Ghana’s politics remains limited. In 2024, women constituted less than 15% of the 275-member parliament. The Affirmative Action Act, passed in September 2024, aims to elevate women’s representation to at least 30% by 2026 and 50% by 2030. Amnesty International underscored the necessity for policies that promote women’s equal engagement in policymaking and public office.
Various societal challenges, such as witchcraft accusations in the Northern and Northeast regions, persist as women face discrimination and violence, often leading to displacement. The parliament passed a bill in July 2023, banning witchcraft accusations, yet it awaits enactment as law. Amnesty International presses for legislation that directly confronts these abuses and raises public awareness about the detrimental impacts on human rights.
The organization noted instances where the right to peaceful assembly has been restricted. For example, a scheduled protest in Accra was banned in July, raising concerns about suppressing dissent. Amnesty International has advocated for amending the Public Order Act to assure citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and free expression. More about these issues can be explored in an Amnesty International report.
The ramifications of illegal mining, also known as Galamsey, have strained environmental and human rights. Over 39 protesters, including those from Democracy Hub, were detained following a demonstration against illegal mining, facing charges such as unlawful assembly and public disorder. Amnesty International demands the new government act against illegal mining, salvos its environmental impacts, and defends citizens’ rights to a healthy environment. To get a detailed background on the issues surrounding illegal mining, read the latest dispatch by Jurist.
As President Mahama embarks on his term, the international community and human rights advocates will vigilantly observe how his administration upholds these human rights commitments.