NPP raises concerns over remand of Salomey Awiti Bafoh

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has expressed concerns over the remand of Salomey Awiti Bafoh, a principal nursing officer and mother of three, by the Adenta Circuit Court for an additional fortnight. The party criticized the arrest of Madam Bafoh in Techiman and her subsequent transfer to Accra, noting that she was allegedly held incommunicado for several days prior to her court appearance on September 16.

The NPP pointed out that the prosecution initially linked her to the "Ghana Jollof" social media account and accused her of plotting a government overthrow. However, the charges were later changed to abetment of the publication of false news under Sections 20(1) and 208 of Act 29. This alteration, the NPP argues, raises questions about the grounds for her continued detention.

The party questioned the Adenta Circuit Court's territorial jurisdiction, as Madam Bafoh resides in Techiman. Additionally, the NPP expressed worry over a developing pattern of politically sensitive cases being brought before the court. They called for a review of Madam Bafoh's detention and the possibility of her being granted reasonable bail, while urging the prosecution to substantiate the legal and territorial foundation for the charges.

The NPP also called upon the Chief Justice and the Judicial Council to address the concerns regarding the handling of politically sensitive cases in the Adenta Circuit Court. They urged the government and security forces to uphold citizens' constitutional rights and refrain from utilizing the criminal justice system to silence or intimidate critics.

The party warned that the sustainability of Ghana's democracy is at risk if the justice system is perceived as a tool for punishing dissent.