President John Dramani Mahama has renewed his call for the swift passage of the Anti-Witchcraft Bill, underscoring the urgent need for stronger legal protections for vulnerable women—particularly the elderly—who continue to face abuse and violence over witchcraft accusations.

Speaking at a Presidential Dialogue with Civil Society Organisations, the President said Ghana must not allow superstition and cultural misconceptions to fuel human rights violations and loss of life.

He urged Parliament to act decisively on the bill, noting that its passage would enhance protection for accused persons while deterring harmful practices within communities.

“We must pass this Anti-Witchcraft Bill to protect vulnerable women and ensure that no one is subjected to violence or banishment on the basis of accusations of witchcraft,” he stated.

President Mahama explained that many such accusations are often rooted in misunderstandings surrounding health conditions, infertility, and illness, rather than any factual basis. He emphasised the importance of public education and improved access to healthcare in addressing the issue.

“In many of these cases, what people attribute to witchcraft is actually a medical issue. We need to strengthen public education and encourage people to seek proper medical care,” he added.

The President also referenced past incidents in parts of the country where accused women were assaulted or killed, describing such acts as unacceptable in a modern democratic society governed by the rule of law.

He noted that the proposed legislation aims not only to punish perpetrators but also to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of survivors, including those currently living in so-called witches’ camps.

President Mahama further acknowledged that although the bill previously went through Parliament, it lapsed after not receiving presidential assent. He assured that government is ready to re-engage stakeholders to address any outstanding concerns and move the process forward.

Civil society organisations at the dialogue welcomed the renewed commitment and called for swift passage and enforcement of the bill to prevent further abuses.

Once enacted, the Anti-Witchcraft Bill is expected to criminalise harmful practices linked to witchcraft accusations and significantly strengthen legal protections for affected individuals across the country.