CHRAJ writes to President : Calls for signing of Anti-Witchcraft Bill

The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) calls on President Akufo-Addo to sign the Anti-Witchcraft Bill, after resolving the legal concerns raised.

It notes that signing this bill will strengthen the protection of vulnerable individuals and enhance Ghana's human rights reputation.

In an advisory opinion signed by the Commissioner, Dr. Joseph Whittal, CHRAJ further highlighted that the ongoing practice of witchcraft accusations and the existence of witch camps harm Ghana’s international standing. 

Additionally, the Commission reiterates the fact that the issue has persisted for many years, significantly affecting the rights of Ghanaian women and hindering national progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 5.

The Criminal Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2022 popularly called the Anti witchcraft Bill, introduced by Francis-Xavier Kojo Sosu (NDC MP for Madina)  and others, was passed by Parliament on July 28, 2023.

But the President is yet to assent to the bill following his reservation on its financial implications. 

However, the Commission in its advisory, the Commission has appealed to the President to “to take urgent steps including any legislative steps 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) to further enhance the protection of this vulnerable group and the consolidation of Ghana's human rights record.” 

Below is CHRAJ's advisory opinion