A group of women in Ghana, under the banner of the Ghana Women’s Movement, marched through the streets of Accra on Tuesday, demanding the immediate release of detained nurse Salomey Awiti Baffoe. The demonstration, part of the “Women’s Voices Matter” campaign, aimed to push for justice, equality, and dignity for Ghanaian women. The protesters, comprising women from various sectors of society, including politics, markets, and offices, were joined by male sympathizers. They chanted slogans, calling for Salomey's release.
The protest was sparked by Salomey's detention over alleged links to the anonymous “Ghana Jollof” TikTok account. Her lawyers have challenged her continued detention, while her family has denied any connection to the account. The Ghana Women’s Movement presented a written petition to the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, outlining their concerns and demands for the protection of women’s rights and fundamental freedoms. The group insists that women must be able to express their views without intimidation or arrest.
The movement also raised concerns over the increasing intimidation, arrest, remand, and imprisonment of women in connection with the exercise of their freedom of expression. They called on President John Dramani Mahama to intervene in Salomey's case and secure her release within 24 hours. The group emphasized that women cannot remain silent while others are arrested, detained, and imprisoned for speaking their minds.
The protesters demanded the full implementation of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024, including measures to increase women’s representation and participation in decision-making. They stressed the importance of women’s voices being heard and their rights being protected. The demonstration highlighted the need for collective action to address the challenges faced by women in Ghana.
The Ghana Women’s Movement is a coalition of women from various backgrounds, united in their quest for gender equality and social justice. The group’s efforts aim to amplify the voices of women and promote a culture of respect and dignity. By marching and presenting a petition, the women demonstrated their commitment to creating a more just and equitable society.
Salomey's case has generated significant public debate, with many questioning her detention and calling for her release. Her lawyers' challenge to her continued detention and her family's denial of any connection to the “Ghana Jollof” TikTok account have added to the controversy. The Ghana Women’s Movement's demands have sparked a national conversation about women's rights and freedoms.
The outcome of the protest and the government's response to the Ghana Women’s Movement's demands remain to be seen. The group's 24-hour ultimatum to President Mahama has put pressure on the government to act. The situation will likely continue to unfold, with many watching to see how Salomey's case is resolved and what actions the government takes to address the concerns of the Ghana Women’s Movement.
Key points
- The Ghana Women’s Movement demands Salomey Awiti Baffoe's release within 24 hours.
- The group calls for the full implementation of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024.
- The protest highlights concerns over the intimidation, arrest, and imprisonment of women exercising their freedom of expression.
