Five Members of Parliament have reintroduced the Anti-Witchcraft Accusations Bill, marking a renewed legislative push to criminalise witchcraft accusations in Ghana. This bill also aims to outlaw the activities of witchfinders and witch doctors, providing stronger legal protection for individuals accused of witchcraft.
The private member's bill, which the Eighth Parliament passed in July 2023, failed to become law after former President Akufo-Addo declined to grant presidential assent. The proposed legislation seeks to amend the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). It specifically prohibits individuals from declaring, accusing, naming, or labelling another person as a witch. It further outlaws the practice of witch-finding and the activities of those who present themselves as witchfinders or witch doctors.
This reintroduction comes amid persistent calls from human rights organisations and civil society groups for enhanced legal protections against witchcraft accusations. These accusations disproportionately affect older women, particularly in parts of northern Ghana. The legislative effort reflects a broader national conversation about balancing traditional beliefs with modern human rights principles and legal frameworks.
The original bill was sponsored by five MPs: Francis-Xavier Kojo Sosu (Madina), Hajia Laadi Ayii Ayamba (Pusiga), Dr. Godfred Seidu Jasaw (Wa East), Helen Adjoa Ntoso (Krachi West), and Betty Nana Efua Krosbi Mensah (Afram Plains North). Former President Akufo-Addo withheld assent, citing constitutional concerns over its introduction as a private member's bill rather than government-sponsored legislation. This procedural issue prevented the bill from becoming law despite parliamentary approval.
In May, Amnesty International (AI) Ghana appealed to President John Mahama to declare the Anti-Witchcraft Accusations Bill a national priority. The organisation urged the President to certify it as urgent for passage by Parliament. Amnesty International stated that the bill's passage and implementation would significantly help protect vulnerable groups from violence, discrimination, and other human rights abuses linked to witchcraft accusations. The organisation also called on the Human Rights Committee of Parliament to ensure the bill was laid before Parliament to facilitate its passage.
The reintroduction of this bill signals a continued commitment by some legislators to address a deeply rooted social issue with significant human rights implications. Its passage would represent a landmark step in Ghana's legal landscape, potentially altering how traditional beliefs intersect with the justice system. Observers will closely watch how the current Parliament and President John Mahama respond to this renewed legislative effort, especially given the previous constitutional concerns raised.
The bill's journey through Parliament will likely involve extensive debate, particularly concerning its constitutional implications and its practical enforcement. Its success would offer a new layer of protection for individuals, predominantly women, who face severe social ostracisation and violence due to unfounded accusations. The outcome will demonstrate Ghana's resolve in upholding human rights against harmful traditional practices.