The government is considering adopting the Anti-Witchcraft Bill as part of efforts to strengthen legal protections against witchcraft accusations in Ghana, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has disclosed.
The Private Member’s Bill, sponsored by Madina MP and human rights lawyer Francis-Xavier Sosu, seeks to criminalise accusations of witchcraft, an issue that continues to affect communities across the country.
Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, Mr Ibrahim said the proposed legislation is aimed at addressing the social and legal gaps that currently allow such accusations to persist, stressing that Ghana lacks a comprehensive national law specifically targeting the practice.
He explained that the Ministry is working to mobilise support from traditional leaders and community stakeholders to ensure broad acceptance of the proposed law, while also reviewing similar legal frameworks within the sub-region to align Ghana’s approach with international human rights standards.
According to him, ongoing engagement with stakeholders is expected to help harmonise the bill and strengthen protections for victims, including their reintegration into society.
Mr Ibrahim noted that despite repeated calls from civil society organisations for urgent passage of the bill, witchcraft accusations remain a concern in several communities.
He emphasised the importance of inter-ministerial collaboration and the involvement of traditional authorities in shaping the final legislation.
“By rallying the voices of traditional authorities, legislative reforms will be grounded in cultural legitimacy and community acceptance, while protecting the dignity and rights of all citizens,” he stated.
The Ministry says it will continue consultations with chiefs and other stakeholders to ensure the bill reflects both legal standards and cultural realities while strengthening safeguards for vulnerable individuals.
