Ghana Vice President Bawumia Urges Release of Nurse Accused of Spreading False News
Former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia called for the release of nurse Salomey Awity Baffoe after her arrest on September 13 for alleged dissemination of false news
In Brief
- •Former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia called for the release of nurse Salomey Awity Baffoe after her arrest on September 13 for alleged dissemination of false news
- •Baffoe was remanded for two weeks at Adenta Circuit Court following a charge of abetment under Sections 20(1) and 208 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960
- •The case involves alleged links to TikTok videos posted by Barbara Asantewaa Kodua, known as “Ghana Jollof”
- •Bawumia warned that the arrest raises concerns about free‑speech limits and selective law enforcement in Ghana
Why It Matters
The incident highlights tensions between national security operations and constitutional freedoms in Ghana. Bawumia’s appeal underscores the importance of safeguarding free expression while addressing misinformation, a balance that is critical for democratic stability and public trust in governance.
Key Details
- Arrest Date
- September 13, 2026
- Remand Duration
- Two weeks
- Charge
- Abetment of publication of false news under Sections 20(1) and 208 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960
- Location of Arrest
- Hansua, near Techiman
- Court
- Adenta Circuit Court
Context & Background
Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act, 1960 criminalises the spread of false information, a law that has been invoked in recent cases involving social media content. The current case adds to a growing debate over how the law is applied to political speech.
Original Reporting & Sources
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