ECOWAS Court orders Ghana to compensate New Force Spokesperson Shalimar Abbiusi

The ECOWAS Court has ruled in favor of Shalimar Abbiusi, a Belgian national and spokesperson for the New Force, ordering Ghana to compensate her for violations of her fundamental rights.

The case, which was decided on Friday, November 22, 2024, centered on Ms. Abbiusi’s arrest, detention, and subsequent deportation in December 2023.

The court found Ghana’s actions, including wrongful arrest and inhumane treatment by immigration and National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) officers, to have contravened Article 6 of the Liberty of People, especially as all charges against her were previously dropped.

The ruling is a significant victory for Ms. Abbiusi, whose legal team, led by Madina legislator Francis-Xavier Sosu and Attorney Belinda Narkey Quaynor, hailed the judgment as a triumph for justice and accountability.

“We feel vindicated that the ECOWAS Court has protected the rights of Shalimar,” said Mr. Sosu.

The New Force also expressed gratitude for the decision, stating it underscores the importance of fairness and justice in governance.

The movement further criticized what it described as a pattern of political persecution, calling on Ghana’s government to uphold constitutional rights and adhere to international human rights standards.

The court’s judgment has sparked renewed calls for institutional reforms within Ghana, as civil society organizations and human rights advocates weigh in on the broader implications of the case.

The New Force has urged the international community to join efforts in condemning such rights violations and supporting democratic principles across Africa.