Amnesty International has called on Ghana’s new President, John Mahama, to prioritize human rights in his administration. The organization emphasized the significance of addressing gender inequality, ensuring women’s rights, protecting peaceful assembly rights, and promoting a safe, healthy environment for all citizens.
Genevieve Partington, the Country Director of Amnesty International Ghana, stressed, “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 advances, women in Ghana still face barriers in politics, comprising less than 15% of the 275-member legislature as of 2024. The recently passed Affirmative Action Act aims for a minimum of 30% female representation by 2026, with a goal of 50% by 2030. Vice-President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang’s appointment marks a significant step forward, and Amnesty International urges the government to implement policies ensuring women’s equal participation in government.
Older women in regions like the North and Northeast often face witchcraft accusations, resulting in discrimination and violence. Although parliament passed the Criminal Offences (Amendment) Bill in July 2023, which could make such accusations illegal, it has yet to be enacted as law. Amnesty International calls for legislation to specifically address these harmful practices and raise public awareness.
The right to peaceful assembly is under constant threat, evidenced by the ban on a demonstration in Accra last July. To protect citizens’ rights to express themselves peacefully, Amnesty International recommends revising the Public Order Act, ensuring these freedoms are respected and upheld.
Illegal mining operations in Ghana, known as Galamsey, are severely impacting the environment, prompting calls for urgent government action. Amnesty International insists that the new administration address these issues to safeguard communities’ rights to a healthy environment.
In a recent protest against illegal mining led by Democracy Hub, approximately 39 demonstrators were arrested, charged with various offenses after organizers defied police orders regarding the demonstration’s location. As President Mahama embarks on his term, he will be closely scrutinized by the international community and human rights advocates regarding his commitment to these important issues.
Amnesty International urges President John Mahama to make human rights a priority in his new administration. Key issues include promoting women’s rights, ensuring peaceful assembly, addressing witchcraft accusations, and tackling environmental damage from illegal mining. The organization’s recommendations aim to safeguard the freedoms and rights of all citizens as Mahama begins his term.
In conclusion, as President Mahama takes office, the focus on human rights remains paramount. Amnesty International’s call emphasizes the necessity for proactive policies that tackle gender disparity, uphold the right to peaceful protest, and curb illegal mining’s environmental damage. The international community’s close monitoring will determine whether his administration prioritizes these critical issues.
The article highlights the pressing human rights issues in Ghana under the new leadership of President John Mahama. It addresses women’s rights, the right to peaceful assembly, and environmental concerns stemming from illegal mining. The call for urgent action by Amnesty International reflects the broader context of challenges faced by marginalized groups and the need for protective policies.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
