The World Human Rescue and Advocacy Organisation (WHRAO), in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, has officially launched its operations with a strong call for urgent reforms in Ghana’s justice and correctional systems.
The inaugural ceremony, held at the Ho Central Prison under the theme “Righting the Scales,” brought together government officials, legal practitioners, prison authorities, civil society actors and youth advocates to spotlight persistent injustices within Ghana’s judicial framework.
Spotlight on Systemic Injustice
Chief Executive Officer of WHRAO, Michael Asare, drew attention to long-standing systemic challenges, including “prolonged pre-trial detention, overcrowded prisons, limited access to legal representation, and unequal treatment of vulnerable groups” within the justice system.
Representing the Ho Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), John Ntibreh, the Municipal Planning Officer, acknowledged that structural and administrative weaknesses continue to undermine justice delivery in the country.
“Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. Unfortunately, many citizens, especially the poor and marginalised, experience delays and inequities that erode confidence in our judicial institutions,” he said.
Call for Institutional and Legal Reforms
Andrews Dodzi Adugu, Esq., representing the Member of Parliament for the Ho Central Constituency, stressed the need for legislative and policy reforms to address inequalities within the justice system.
He noted that while Ghana prides itself on being a constitutional democracy, the experiences of many citizens—particularly remand prisoners—expose gaps between legal ideals and reality.
“A justice system that punishes poverty and rewards privilege cannot sustain democracy. Reform is no longer optional; it is a necessity,” he stated.
Private Sector and Civil Society Engagement
The Director of Communication at WHRAO, Philipine Gordor, emphasised the importance of private sector involvement in promoting justice and protecting human rights.
She called for stronger collaboration among government, civil society and corporate institutions to support advocacy efforts and provide resources for legal aid, rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates.
Prison Service Perspective
Speaking on behalf of the Ghana Prison Service, Deputy Director of Prisons (DDP) Joseph Vuu, Regional Commander, highlighted challenges confronting correctional facilities, including overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure.
He noted that many inmates remain in custody beyond reasonable periods, not because of guilt, but due to procedural delays and limited access to legal support.
“Our prisons are filled with individuals who are yet to be tried. This is not merely a prison issue; it is a justice system problem that requires collective action,” he said.
Mission of the Organisation
WHRAO explained that its mission is to promote fairness, human rights and access to justice, particularly for vulnerable populations within Ghana’s legal system.
According to the organisation’s Director of Administration, Delight Modzaka, its programmes will focus on legal advocacy, public education, prison outreach, youth empowerment and policy engagement aimed at restoring balance and equity in the administration of justice.
A Call to “Right the Scales”
The event ended with renewed calls for a national dialogue on justice reform, as participants urged stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric towards concrete action.
As Ghana continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, the launch served as a reminder that true justice is measured not only by laws on paper, but by fairness in practice.
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com