Dr Frank Ashiadey calls for religious freedom and fairness in Ghana's justice system

Founder of Temple of Destiny International and Restoration Center, Dr Frank Senanu Ashiadey, has called for stronger protection of religious freedom, fairness and the rights of individuals within Ghana’s justice system. In a message addressed to the President, the Chief Justice, the Judiciary and Ghanaians, Dr Ashiadey said the country’s commitment to freedom and justice must be reflected in how citizens are treated by public institutions, particularly the courts. He stressed the need for judicial processes that respect individual religious beliefs and ensure that no person is disadvantaged because of their faith or traditional practices. Drawing on the lyrics of the Ghanaian Youth Anthem, which calls on citizens to unite in building the country, Dr Ashiadey said national development must go hand in hand with the protection of individual rights and freedoms. He questioned the meaning of freedom if citizens felt pressured to express their conscience through religious beliefs or scriptures they did not identify with. He also emphasised the importance of fair hearings, arguing that every person accused of an offence should have the opportunity to present evidence and receive impartial consideration before the law. Dr Ashiadey said wrongful convictions could have lasting consequences for individuals and their families, noting that the loss of freedom often comes with personal and emotional costs that financial compensation may not fully address. He therefore called for judicial processes that are accessible, impartial, timely and fair, as well as safeguards to prevent wrongful convictions. He said the President, Judiciary, Parliament and citizens all had important roles to play in protecting constitutional rights and ensuring that justice was available to everyone. Referring to Ghana’s national motto, “Freedom and Justice”, Dr Ashiadey said the principles should be reflected in the daily experiences of citizens, including their interactions with the courts, police and other public institutions. He further called for equal treatment of Christians, Muslims, traditional African spiritual believers and people who do not identify with any religion. According to him, Ghana must remain a country where people can freely hold and practise their beliefs without fear of discrimination or unequal treatment under the law. Dr Ashiadey said the country’s progress should not be measured only by infrastructure and economic development, but also by how effectively it protects the dignity, freedoms and rights of its people. He urged national leaders and citizens to work together to strengthen justice and uphold the constitutional rights of all Ghanaians. “Let no one be a stranger in their own country because of what they believe,” he said.Source: www.ghanaweb.com
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