NPP calls for bail review for remanded Techiman nurse

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has raised questions over the continued detention of Techiman-based nurse Salomey Awiti Bafoh, citing what it describes as a “dramatic change” in the prosecution’s case against her.

According to the party, Bafoh was initially accused of being connected to the “Ghana Jollof” social media account and was being investigated over an alleged plot to overthrow the government when she first appeared before the Adenta Circuit Court on September 16, 2026.

However, the NPP said the prosecution presented a different allegation the following day, accusing the principal nursing officer and mother of three of abetment of the publication of false news under Sections 20(1) and 208 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).

In a statement signed by its General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, on Friday, September 18, the NPP said the change in the allegations raises “serious questions” about the basis for Bafoh’s continued detention.

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The party said Bafoh, who resides in Techiman, had already spent about a week in custody before the court further remanded her for two weeks.

“The NPP is particularly concerned that Madam Salomey, who had already spent about a week in custody, was further remanded while the prosecution claimed that investigations were still ongoing,” the statement said.

The party argued that pre-trial detention must not become a substitute for investigation or punishment before conviction.

It cited Section 96 of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30), which it said requires bail conditions to be reasonable and prohibits the withholding of bail as punishment.

The NPP also questioned the territorial jurisdiction of the Adenta Circuit Court, given that Bafoh resides in Techiman.

“There are also legitimate questions regarding the territorial jurisdiction of the Adenta Circuit Court, given that Madam Bafoh resides in Techiman, and the prosecution must demonstrate what specific act constituting the alleged abetment occurred within the jurisdiction of the Adenta Court,” it stated.

It further called for full respect for Bafoh’s constitutional rights.

“NPP demands full respect for her constitutional rights, including personal liberty, presumption of innocence and fair trial,” the statement said.

The NPP also called on the Chief Justice and Judicial Council to take note of what it described as “growing concerns” over the handling of politically sensitive cases before the Adenta Circuit Court.

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“The NPP therefore calls upon the Chief Justice and Judicial Council to take note of the growing concerns surrounding the handling of politically sensitive cases before the Adenta Circuit Court; and urges the government and security agencies to desist from using the criminal justice system to intimidate or silence citizens who criticise those in power,” it noted.

The NPP further indicated that it would continue to defend the constitutional rights and freedoms of every Ghanaian, irrespective of political affiliation.

“Ghana’s democracy cannot be sustained if the machinery of justice is perceived as an instrument for punishing dissent,” the statement added.

See the full statement below:

JKB/MA

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