Haruna Iddrisu Critiques Excessive Bail Conditions in Ghana

Haruna Iddrisu, the Education Minister and MP for Tamale South, has voiced strong criticism against what he describes as the misuse of power by state institutions regarding bail for accused individuals. Speaking at the funeral of Dr. Mahama Sayibu, Iddrisu accused the Ghana Police Service, the courts, and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) of transforming bail into a punitive measure rather than a legal safeguard. He highlighted that current practices involve excessive denials of bail and harsh conditions that contradict the principles of justice. Citing Section 96(3) and (4) of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960, he emphasized that bail conditions should be reasonable and context-specific. Additionally, he referenced Article 19(2)(c) of the 1992 Constitution, which upholds the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. Iddrisu called for immediate reforms in the justice system and urged institutions to exercise fairness in administering bail. His remarks reflect growing public concern regarding restrictive bail practices that often lead to unjust detentions, despite legal provisions allowing for bail.