Dear Hon. Xavier Sosu,
The Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG) and the Justice Revived Foundation (JRF) commend your efforts to highlight the horrific gang-defilement of Ama, a 13-year-old pupil, on the floor of Parliament to garner support for her justice.
Your advocacy as a renowned human rights activist and lawyer is admired across the board, and we appreciate your intent to bring attention to this grave issue.
However, we are deeply disappointed by your failure to acknowledge the significant contributions of HRRG and JRF, which have been pivotal in investigating and amplifying this case to ensure justice for Ama and safeguard her rights as a vulnerable teenager.
We are equally concerned by certain details in your statement, which you claim were obtained from police sources and presented as facts.
These assertions appear to dismiss the findings of civil society organizations like ours without due diligence. It is surprising that, given your pedigree in human rights, you would place such heavy reliance on a police report without cross-checking its veracity with organizations that have conducted thorough investigations into this matter.
A mere police report, without independent verification, is insufficient to establish the full truth in a case of such critical human rights implications.
HRRG and JRF have worked tirelessly to uncover the details of Ama’s ordeal, as outlined in our press statement. Our investigations, grounded in Ama’s courageous testimony, revealed the extent of the atrocities committed by over 20 perpetrators, led by Clement Kwame.
We have advocated for swift justice, comprehensive support for Ama, and systemic measures to prevent such crimes. Dismissing or overlooking our findings risks perpetuating erroneous impressions and undermining the collective effort to secure justice.
We respectfully urge you to:
Acknowledge the contributions of HRRG and JRF in advocating for Ama’s justice and amplifying her voice. Exercise caution in presenting unverified information as fact, particularly on sensitive human rights issues, and engage with civil society organizations to ensure accuracy. Continue supporting Ama’s case by advocating for the apprehension of all perpetrators, including Clement Kwame, and ensuring robust legal and psychological support for Ama.
We remain committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders, including yourself, to ensure justice for Ama and to protect vulnerable children across Ghana.
Let us unite in this cause, recognizing the collective efforts of all involved, to create a safer and more just society.
Sincerely,
Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG) & Justice Revived Foundation (JRF)
