The African Commission on Human and People’s Rights (ACHPR) has expressed serious concern over the persistent human rights challenges within Ghana’s justice and prison systems, emphasizing that ongoing reforms remain insufficient to address systemic issues.
During a promotion mission in Ghana from September 29 to October 2, 2025, the Commission observed that overcrowding in prisons has reached critical levels.
Nsawam Medium Security Prison, for instance, is currently housing 3,496 inmates—over 360 percent of its designed capacity of 1,000.
The ACHPR noted that delays in passing the Community Sentencing Bill, which would offer alternative measures for minor offences, continue to exacerbate the crisis.
The Commission also pointed out glaring disparities in prison conditions. While some facilities provide inmates with access to tertiary education, many others lack even basic educational programmes.
Additionally, civilian teachers working in prisons reportedly receive inadequate training, and international human rights standards, including the Nelson Mandela Rules, are inconsistently applied across the system.
In response, the ACHPR urged the Ghanaian government to expedite the passage and full implementation of the Community Sentencing Bill to reduce prison congestion.
It further recommended enacting anti-torture legislation, formally designating the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) as the National Preventive Mechanism with authority to conduct unannounced inspections of detention facilities, and operationalising the Independent Police Complaint Committee by January 2026 as pledged.
The Commission also called for mandatory, standardized human rights training for all prison and police personnel, focusing on the Nelson Mandela Rules, de-escalation techniques, and proper management of public assemblies under the Public Order Act.
The ACHPR concluded that without immediate action, Ghana risks perpetuating piecemeal reforms, leaving detainees’ rights and dignity vulnerable to ongoing violations.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Fred Duhoe
