The Parliamentary Select Committee on Human Rights has assured inhabitants of witches’ camps of strong advocacy to address the injustice done to them. Chairman of the committee Anim Yaw Ernest gave the assurance during a visit to two witches’ Camps including Gnani Camp to document findings and assess the community dynamics. Alhassan, the leader of the witch camp, welcomed the Committee and provided an update on the camp’s current conditions.
He explained that the camp provides shelter for alleged witches and wizards facing mistreatment by their own communities. He stated that stigma, inadequate resources, lack of education and healthcare are the major challenges the Gnani camp faces.
The Committee also proceeded to Kukuo Camp to engage with residents. As per customs, the Committee paid homage to the town’s Chief.
The Chairman of the Committee, Anim Yaw Ernest, assured both camps that the Committee, with the help of CSOs, will advocate against injustice done to alleged witches and work to ensure that the Anti-witchcraft bill is passed.
Also on the trip was country director for Amnesty International Genevieve Partington. Amnesty has been advocating for better treatment of the victims in these camps and reforms in the country’s laws to address the problem.
The Committee would also push for victims not enrolled on LEAP to be registered as soon as possible. The Chairman, on behalf of the Committee, made cash donations to both camps.
