RANA Raises Human Rights Concerns In Salomey Baffoe Jollof Case

Civil society organisation Rights Accountability Network Africa (RANA) has voiced alarm over the arrest, detention and ongoing prosecution of Salomey Awiti Baffoe. In a formal statement it warned that the handling of speech‑related offences may restrict freedom of expression for all Ghanaians.

RANA stressed that the state must investigate genuine threats, incitement to violence and other criminal conduct, but it also highlighted that Ms Baffoe has pleaded not guilty and that the charges against her must be tested in a competent court based on solid evidence. The group cited Article 21(1)(a) of the 1992 Constitution, which protects the right to speak, debate public affairs and criticise government without fear of unfair legal sanction.

According to the statement, Ms Baffoe was taken from her home in Techiman late at night, transported to Accra and initially could not be located by her family. She has since remained in pre‑trial custody while investigations continue. Prosecutors allege that she helped spread material they describe as false and inflammatory, and they point to concerns about witness reliability and digital evidence. RANA argues that these competing claims should be resolved through due process, not through public pressure or rushed legal action.

The organisation warned that such arrests, detentions and public accusations can have a broader chilling effect, making citizens hesitant to voice criticism or participate in public discourse. It called for proportionality and necessity in any state measure used against individuals, urging that any legal action be justified, narrowly tailored and subject to transparent judicial review.

RANA concluded by urging the Attorney‑General’s office and the courts to handle the case with care, ensuring that constitutional freedoms are preserved while addressing legitimate security concerns.