A group of women in Ghana took to the streets to demand the immediate release of Salomey Awitey Baffoe, who has been detained since September 13. The women, participating in the "Women's Voices Matter" demonstration, gathered at the AMA Park before proceeding to the premises of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). They chanted "Free Salomey now!" and called on the government and relevant authorities to intervene in her continued detention.
Salomey Baffoe, 40, was arrested during a midnight raid at her home in Hansua in the Techiman Municipality of the Bono East Region. The High Court on September 24 denied a bail application filed on her behalf, citing ongoing cyber-related investigations and the risk of interference with witnesses. The court directed the Republic to expedite its investigations. However, the protesters questioned the decision to keep Ms Baffoe in custody, arguing that she should not be subjected to prolonged or unfair detention.
The protesters, who gave President John Dramani Mahama 24 hours to act, expressed strong emotions during the demonstration, with some participants crying as they demanded Ms Baffoe's release. They argued that women already face significant social and economic challenges, and those who find themselves in legal or investigative situations should be treated fairly and in accordance with the law. The demonstration was not only about Salomey but also about drawing attention to broader issues affecting women.
KOKA, who joined the demonstration, said he was there because he believes issues affecting women should concern everyone. He pointed to the women in his own life, including his sisters and mother, and questioned the continued detention of Ms Baffoe. KOKA argued that if the phone containing the information needed for the investigation is already in police custody, investigators should be able to examine the device without requiring her continued presence in custody.
KOKA also questioned what he described as differences in the way authorities have publicly handled various cases. He referred to other incidents, including a reported murder involving a phone dealer, and questioned why there appeared to be greater public attention surrounding Ms Baffoe's case. He noted that the authorities had held a press conference in connection with allegations involving Salomey, while other serious incidents had not received the same level of public communication.
The protesters repeatedly directed their message at President John Dramani Mahama, calling on him to intervene and demanding Salomey's release. At EOCO, the women continued chanting and expressing their frustration, with some visibly emotional as they called for justice. Meanwhile, attention is also turning to the next stage of the legal process, with Salomey expected back in court on September 30.
The demonstration represents a wider conversation about how women are treated and supported in Ghana, beyond the immediate issue of Salomey Baffoe's detention. KOKA highlighted the everyday struggles women face, including difficulties in providing for their families, getting their children into school, and making a living. He also questioned whether promises aimed at supporting women, including a proposed women's bank, had translated into meaningful relief for women struggling to provide for their families.
Key points
- The protesters have given President John Dramani Mahama 24 hours to act and demand Salomey's release.
- Salomey Baffoe was arrested on September 13 and has been detained since then.
- The demonstration was part of a wider conversation about how women are treated and supported in Ghana.
