PLEASE ENSURE THE ABOLITION OF THE DEATH PENALTY.

10.04.2007 LISTEN

Dear Hon. Minister,

Once again, I would like to appeal to you within the context and framework of Amnesty International's sustained campaign for the abolition of the death penalty within the ECOWAS states and Mauritania.

Both Senegal and Liberia have since 2004 joined other countries to abolish the death penalty in their various countries. Ghana seems to fit excellently in this movement, especially as we celebrate 50 years of 'Freedom and Justice'.

Sir, when in 2005, you publicly stated your opposition to the death penalty at the time you were vying for the position of Deputy Minister, Ministry of Justice and Attorney-General, it raised my hopes and aspirations regarding its abolition in Ghana.
Several influential people have also expressed their opposition to the death penalty but we are yet to learn about Government position on the abolition of the death penalty.
I think this abolition is more critical now, more than ever before, considering that Ghana has for the past decade remained a de facto abolitionist.
I can assure you that human rights concerns throughout the world would be pleased to read about your position and steps in this direction.

In the name of all the values that humanity cherishes as good and just, I would like to encourage you to use your good and influential position to urge the Ghanaian authorities to
1. Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and political Rights;
2. Adopt a moratorium on executions in view of abolishing the death penalty;
3. Encourage His Excellency, President John Agyekum Kufuor to commute all death sentences.

I would like to share with you this thoughtful consideration by Dr.Asha-RoseMigiro,UN Deputy Secretary-General…

“Scrapping the death penalty is not an individual's state wish but one of UN policies because it contravenes UN principles of humanity, human rights and equality. I will help my superiour ensure that all member states implement the policy.”

Yours sincerely,

Prize F.Y.McApreko.
[email protected]