General News of Thursday, 19 February 2026

Source: www.ghanaweb.com

Minority calls for stronger human rights safeguards in security bill

Minority says there are no enforcement mechanisms or clear sanctions for breaches Minority says there are no enforcement mechanisms or clear sanctions for breaches

Minority Caucus in Parliament has rejected the Security and Intelligence Agencies Bill, 2025, on grounds of inadequate human rights protections.

According to a myjoyonline.com report on Thursday, February 19, 2026, the minority, contended that, some words in the bill could be interpreted expansively to target lawful opposition, protest or activism.

“Although political neutrality is mentioned, there are no enforcement mechanisms or clear sanctions for breaches,” it stated.

The minority also warned about the structure of Regional and District Security Councils, which are chaired by Regional Ministers and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives.

Parliament holds public hearing on Security and Intelligence Agencies Bill

It argued that the absence of cross-party representation creates a risk of politicisation, particularly during election periods.

“During sensitive periods, especially elections, such structures can be misused to suppress lawful political activity,” the minority stated.

On financial accountability, the minority maintained that Parliament’s approval of intelligence funding must be matched with structured reporting mechanisms.

It argued that while the Auditor-General audits agency accounts, the bill does not require detailed budget breakdowns or the publication of non-sensitive audit findings to enable effective oversight.

“Ghana needs a security framework that is strong and professional, but also accountable and firmly anchored in the Constitution,” the minority stressed, reiterating its position that the bill must be amended to safeguard civil liberties while strengthening national security.

SO/VPO

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