The ECOWAS Court has ruled in favor of The New Force in a landmark human rights case against the Republic of Ghana. The court found that Ghana violated the rights of Shalimar Abbiusi, the spokesperson of The New Force, through unlawful actions that included wrongful arrest, detention, and deportation.
This case stemmed from Ms. Abbiusi’s mistreatment by the Ghana Immigration Service, which, despite the State Prosecutor dropping all charges against her, rearrested her and proceeded with an illegal deportation. These actions not only violated her fundamental human rights but also caused significant harm to her personal and professional reputation.
The court ruled that the rearrest and deportation breached Article 6 of the Liberty of People and has ordered the Ghanaian government to provide compensation. Hon. Francis-Xavier Sosu, Esq., who represented Ms. Abbiusi alongside Lawyer Belinda Narkey Quaynor, expressed satisfaction with the ruling. “I feel vindicated that the ECOWAS Court has protected the rights of Shalimar,” he stated.
In a statement, The New Force described the ruling as a victory for justice and democracy. The group highlighted the importance of holding governments accountable and condemned what it sees as a troubling pattern of political persecution in Ghana.
“The actions against Ms. Abbiusi exemplify a broader issue of political persecution that threatens the foundations of democracy in Ghana,” The New Force said. The organization also emphasized its mission to ensure the fair application of laws across Africa and called on the Ghanaian government to respect human rights and uphold the rule of law as guaranteed by the Constitution.
The New Force has appealed to civil society organizations, human rights advocates, and the international community to condemn these violations and work toward meaningful reforms. “Together, we can foster a future where every individual’s rights are respected and protected,” said Charles Yomekpe, Chief Administrator of The New Force.
The ruling is seen as a significant step in the fight against abuse of power and the suppression of political dissent in Ghana, sending a strong message about the importance of accountability and justice in democratic governance.
