The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has expressed deep concern over the delay in the presidential assent to the anti-witchcraft bill, two months after its unanimous approval in Parliament.
Commissioner Joseph Whittal stated that the delay is empowering wrongdoers, allowing them to continue their brutal actions against victims and other vulnerable groups, as evidenced by the recent tragic death of 60-year-old Musah Azaratu Poana in Jagna, West Mamprusi Municipality.
In July 2020, the nation was shocked by the brutal lynching of 90-year-old Akua Denteh in Kafaba, sparking international condemnation.
This incident led to the proposal and subsequent unanimous approval of the Criminal Offences Amendment Bill 2022 by Parliament. The bill aims to criminalize accusations, declarations, and naming of individuals as witches and witch doctors, offering protection to those falsely accused.
Whittal’s Concerns
Commissioner Joseph Whittal voiced his distress, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. “Any day that it delays in the signing of this bill into law is a day, for the torture of these women to continue. Just last week another woman was killed just like Akua Denteh. So, let me use the opportunity to express our sincere discomfort about the signing of the bill into law by the president. We want to encourage him to pass it as soon as possible because lives are at stake,” he stated.
The tragic death of Musah Azaratu Poana, who was killed by two brothers in Jagna over a witchcraft accusation, has reignited public outcry and calls for immediate action. The assailants accused Poana of bewitching their father, leading to a fatal shooting.
Public outcry and demand for action
Azaratu’s death has further intensified the public’s demand for the swift enactment of the anti-witchcraft bill into law. Citizens and rights groups are urging the government to take immediate action to curb the rising violence associated with witchcraft accusations.
Law enforcement in the area has launched a manhunt for the two brothers responsible for the heinous crime.
The incident underscores the urgency of implementing the new legislation to protect vulnerable individuals and prevent further atrocities.