The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court has directed the Ghanaian government to compensate Shalimar Abbiusi, the spokesperson for the New Force Movement.The ruling comes in response to her arrest and subsequent deportation. Abbiusi was initially detained on December 4, 2023, and charged with allegedly falsifying documents to secure a residence permit as a student of Ghana Christian University College.

0

She appeared before the Kaneshie District Court for these charges.Although granted bail and released by National Security, she was rearrested and deported on December 20, 2023, just a day after state prosecutors from the Ghana Immigration Service dropped all charges against her.

1

In a statement released on Friday, November 22, the New Force Movement announced that the ECOWAS Court had declared her rearrest and deportation unlawful, ruling that her rights had been violated and ordering the Ghanaian government to compensate her.“This case highlighted significant issues of abuse of power and political persecution.

2

The New Force is pleased to announce a significant victory following the recent ruling by the ECOWAS Court, which confirmed that the Republic of Ghana violated the rights of our spokesperson, Shalimar Abbiusi.“This ruling underscores our commitment to justice and accountability in a democratic society. The court’s decision comes after a series of unlawful actions were taken against Ms.

3

Abbiusi, including her wrongful arrest and subsequent rearrest by the Ghana Immigration Service. The unlawful actions also caused significant damage to her personal and professional standing, amplifying the gravity of the injustice,” it stated.The Movement emphasized that the court’s decision highlights the importance of justice and accountability in a democratic society.

4

It noted that the actions against Abbiusi—including her wrongful arrest, rearrest, and deportation—caused severe harm to her personal and professional reputation, underscoring the gravity of the injustice.Lawyers Francis-Xavier Sosu and Belinda Narkey Quaynor, who represented Abbiusi, welcomed the ruling. Sosu expressed gratitude to the court, stating he feels vindicated by its decision to uphold Abbiusi’s rights.

5

The New Force reiterated its commitment to advocating for the fair application of laws across Africa and called on the Ghanaian government to respect human rights and the rule of law. It stated, “the New Force is dedicated to ensuring that laws are upheld fairly across all African nations, advocating for the rights of individuals regardless of their background.

6

We urge the Ghanaian government to respect human rights and uphold the rule of law, as guaranteed by our Constitution. The actions against Ms. Abbiusi exemplify a broader issue of political persecution that threatens the foundations of democracy in Ghana. As we move forward, we remain steadfast in our mission to promote transparency and accountability within governmental institutions for the benefit of all.

7

”The Movement also appealed to civil society organizations, human rights defenders, and the international community to condemn such violations and support reforms to safeguard human rights in Ghana.“We call on civil society organisations, human rights advocates, and the international community to join us in condemning these violations and supporting efforts for meaningful reform in Ghana.

8

Together, we can foster a future where every individual’s rights are respected and protected. For further information or media inquiries, please contact our communications team at info@thenewforce.org.”<img src="

alt="" class="wp-image-729269"/>

9