Senior Nursing Officer Salomey Awiti Baffoe has been reunited with her family in Techiman after being granted GH¢100,000 bail in connection with the ongoing 'Ghana Jollof' case. Baffoe, a 40-year-old mother of three, was arrested in September at her home in Hansua, near Techiman, and charged with abetment of crime, specifically publication of false news. Her uncle, Kojo Asiedu, confirmed her release and homecoming.
Baffoe's family had initially feared she had been kidnapped, not knowing she had been taken into police custody. According to Asiedu, they thought armed robbers had come to kidnap their daughter, and it wasn't until the media investigated and found out where she was being kept that they learned the truth. Asiedu thanked the media for their help in tracking down Baffoe's whereabouts and for their coverage, which contributed to her eventual release.
Asiedu raised concerns about how the arrest was carried out, appealing to the government to ensure security agencies follow proper procedures when picking up suspects. He warned that the approach used in Baffoe's case could be exploited by people impersonating security officials. Although Baffoe appears well since her release, the family has not yet had her examined by a medical specialist to properly assess her health after the detention period.
The homecoming was an emotional moment for the household, particularly for Baffoe's two children, who had not seen their mother in weeks. Asiedu described the reunion as more than a Christmas celebration, with the children welcoming her with happiness. Baffoe's mother had stopped eating out of worry during her daughter's absence but has since resumed eating now that her daughter is home.
The charge against Baffoe stems from her alleged links to Barbara Asantewaa Kodua, popularly known as 'Ghana Jollof'. Police allege that Baffoe acted as a liaison and helped recruit people to redistribute videos produced by Kodua across social media platforms. These allegations have not been established in court.
Baffoe's case has emerged alongside other recent prosecutions under Ghana's publication-of-false-news laws. There are concerns that the prosecution of Salomey Bafoh could chill free speech in Ghana. Former presidential staffer Kwakye Ofosu argued that threatening to poison the president does not amount to free speech. Publication of false news is a criminal offence in Ghana that can carry penalties including fines or imprisonment.
No date has been given for when Baffoe's case will next appear in court, nor has it been stated when or whether the medical examination her family is seeking will take place. Baffoe herself intends to speak publicly in due course, according to her uncle, who said she will thank everyone for the help and support they gave to her.
Key points
- Senior Nursing Officer Salomey Awiti Baffoe released on GH¢100,000 bail after weeks in detention over 'Ghana Jollof' false news case.
- Baffoe's family had feared she was kidnapped, not knowing she was in police custody.
- The case has raised concerns about free speech in Ghana, with implications for social media activity.
