Senior Nursing Officer Salomey Awiti Baffoe, 40, has been granted bail of GH¢100,000 by the court. She is accused of abetting the alleged publication of false news on social media, although the allegations are yet to be tested fully in court. Her detention had generated concern among her family, who appealed to the government to facilitate her release. The family stated that her continued absence was affecting her children, who are struggling without their mother.
The court ordered Ms Baffoe's release on two sureties, each of whom must be a civil servant earning a monthly salary of at least GH¢3,000. She had pleaded not guilty to the charge and had remained in custody as proceedings continued. The case stems from allegations that Ms Baffoe was involved in the publication or circulation of information on social media which the prosecution considers to be false.
This is not the first attempt to secure her release. An earlier bail application was unsuccessful after prosecutors opposed it, citing the need for Ms Baffoe to assist with ongoing investigations. They also raised concerns that her release could enable her to interfere with witnesses or otherwise affect the investigation. The court subsequently declined to grant bail at that stage.
The case has faced delays, with proceedings adjourned to October 5 because the presiding magistrate was attending a judges and magistrates' conference. The adjournment meant that the prosecution could not proceed with the next stage of presenting its case as originally anticipated. The latest bail decision allows Ms Baffoe to leave custody once the required conditions have been satisfied.
The prosecution is expected to continue presenting its case when the matter resumes, while the defence maintains that Ms Baffoe has a right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. The court proceedings will determine whether the prosecution can establish the allegations against her. Until then, the charge remains an allegation and has not been established as fact.
Her release on bail does not bring the case to an end, and proceedings are expected to continue after the fulfilment of the conditions set by the court. The defence and prosecution will present their cases, and the court will decide whether Ms Baffoe is guilty of the charge. The case has garnered attention due to concerns about freedom of expression and the role of social media in disseminating information.
The case highlights the complexities surrounding social media use and the publication of information in Ghana. As the trial continues, it will be crucial to follow the court's determination on the matter and the implications for Ms Baffoe and others involved. The nursing officer's family has expressed relief over her release, and it remains to be seen how the case will unfold in the coming weeks.
Key points
- Nursing officer Salomey Awiti Baffoe granted GH¢100,000 bail
- Case stems from allegations of aiding publication of false news on social media
- Court ordered her release on two sureties, each earning at least GH¢3,000 monthly
