CDS AFRICA DEMANDS ACCOUNTABILITY AMIDST GHANA POLICE BRUTALITY CONCERNS

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Celestina Damoah

Administrator . Updated April 12, 2024

The Africa Center for Democracy and Socioeconomic Development (CDS Africa) acknowledges and appreciates the dedication and hard work demonstrated by the Ghana Police Force in maintaining law and order, particularly during crowd control situations, and ensuring that the security of the country is safeguarded. However, CDS Africa takes exception to recent reports of police brutality, where officers abuse the powers entrusted to them by the constitution and the law, resulting in harm to citizens.

The Ghanaian public is well aware of the challenges faced by law enforcement officers in ensuring public safety, and we commend their efforts in this regard. Nevertheless, the recent incident involving Judith Yaa Kumah, who alleges her ear was chopped off during interrogation by an officer at the Tema Community 8 police station, highlights a troubling trend of using excessive force and disregard for human rights within the police force.

While investigations are underway, CDS Africa emphasizes the importance of accountability and transparency in addressing allegations of police misconduct. It is imperative that the Ghana Police reaffirm their commitment to upholding the rule of law and respect for human rights in all their operations by ensuring that any officer found to be culpable after investigations will be brought to face the law.

We urge the police administration to enforce internal administrative procedures to prevent further abuses of power and ensure that justice is served for victims of police brutality. Additionally, proactive measures must be taken to instill a culture of professionalism, integrity, and accountability within all law enforcement agencies.

CDS Africa stands firm in its call for the Ghana Police to uphold the highest standards of conduct and restore public trust in the institution. Together, we can work towards a society where the rights and dignity of all citizens are respected and protected.

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Celestina Damoah

We lead research, advocacy and initiatives to advance democracy and policies to bring about socio-economic development.

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