Women have taken to the streets of Accra to demand the immediate release of Salomey Awitey Baffoe, with protesters accusing authorities of subjecting her to prolonged detention.
The demonstrators, who participated in the “Women’s Voices Matter” protest, assembled at the AMA Park before marching to the premises of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).
Chanting “Free Salomey now!” and “John Mahama, free Salomey!”, the protesters called on President John Dramani Mahama and the relevant authorities to intervene in the case.
The group issued a 24-hour ultimatum for action, with some participants expressing frustration over what they described as the continued detention of Ms Baffoe without sufficient justification.
The demonstration was emotional, with some women breaking down in tears as they demanded what they described as justice and fair treatment for the 40-year-old.
Salomey Baffoe was arrested during a midnight raid at her residence in Hansua in the Techiman Municipality of the Bono East Region on Sunday, September 13.
Her bail application was subsequently rejected by the High Court on September 24 after prosecutors argued that she was still required to assist with ongoing investigations.
The court was informed that the investigation was cyber-related and that releasing her could create a risk of interference with witnesses. The court, however, directed the Republic to expedite the investigations.
The protesters maintain that the investigations can continue without keeping Ms Baffoe in custody and have urged authorities to reconsider her detention.
Joining the demonstration, KOKA questioned the argument that investigators needed Ms Baffoe in custody to access information on her phone.
He argued that since the device had already been seized, investigators could examine its contents without necessarily requiring her continued detention.
KOKA also used the protest to highlight broader concerns about the economic and social difficulties confronting women, particularly those involved in trading and supporting their families.
The protesters said their action was therefore not solely about Ms Baffoe but also about demanding greater attention to issues affecting women.
Ms Baffoe is expected to return to court on Wednesday, September 30, as supporters continue to press for her release.
