The government intends to engage traditional rulers, queen mothers and religious figures across the country to foster cultural acceptance and grassroots support for the forthcoming Anti-Witchcraft Accusations Bill, Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs Minister Ahmed Ibrahim informed Parliament.
Addressing MPs, the Minister emphasised that close cooperation with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection is vital to shield vulnerable populations and establish robust support structures, such as sanctuaries for survivors of witchcraft allegations, domestic abuse, child trafficking and forced marriage.
“Chiefs, queen mothers and traditional leaders are custodians of culture and authority in our communities. Their support is critical in reshaping attitudes, preventing harmful practices and promoting reconciliation,” Ibrahim stated. He further noted that garnering their backing would guarantee that legislative updates are “grounded in cultural legitimacy and community acceptance while protecting the dignity and rights of all citizens.”
The Minister revealed that his department, in tandem with state bodies and development partners, will involve traditional authorities, religious leaders and local stakeholders in discussions regarding the perils of witchcraft allegations.
He highlighted the MP for Kumawu, Ernest Yaw, noting that in his constituency, “his royal majesty has contributed immensely to health matters before the regional and national houses of Chiefs.”
According to Ibrahim, the state views this period before the bill is finalised as an ideal window to rally traditional, spiritual and community backing.
Answering parliamentary queries, he explained that the private member’s bill, put forward by Madina MP Francis Xavier Sosu, aims to outlaw witchcraft allegations, shield victims and penalise offenders.
Ibrahim referenced the severe consequences of these allegations, remarking that they undermine “the dignity of our citizens and threaten the peace of our communities.”
He clarified that although the legislation has been introduced, it is yet to be enacted. Parliament’s Human Rights Committee reassured advocates in September 2025 that it would reintroduce the bill to secure its passage and subsequent presidential assent. Meanwhile, organisations such as the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) along with various civil society groups have pressed Parliament to accelerate the process, pointing to a rise in violence stemming from these accusations.
“Mr Speaker, until the bill is enacted, Ghana lacks a comprehensive national law specifically criminalising witchcraft accusations,” the Minister informed the House. “Victims remain vulnerable to stigma, violence and exclusion, particularly in rural areas.”
This legislative void offers a strategic opening for the Ministry to unite traditional and religious figureheads before the text is finalised. To help bring Ghana’s statutory framework into line with international human rights benchmarks, the Ministry aims to evaluate two existing pieces of witchcraft legislation enacted by neighbouring countries within the sub-region.
“Mr Speaker, this year the ministry has set a target to review two existing laws on witchcraft enacted within the sub region with the aim of aligning Ghana’s legal framework with international human rights standards,” Ibrahim affirmed. This strategy underscores the government’s determination to bolster legal safeguards for the accused whilst forging a broader societal consensus against banishment and physical assaults.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
