The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has asked the Accra Metropolitan Assembly to comply with international standards for eviction.
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) accompanied by other security agencies demolished several structures at Old Fadama over the weekend, leaving residents who are mostly migrants from the Northern part of the country homeless.
[contextly_sidebar id=”sOqPXLB1BRBqQnseSq728bV9HQ1x0HAR”]Angered by the AMA’s decision, the residents subsequently took to the streets to protest and destroy some properties at the State House.
The Commission in a statement signed by the Deputy Commissioner, Joseph Whittal admitted that the AMA has the right to carry out demolition exercise under exceptional conditions, but was quick to add that “due regard” must be given to appropriate procedures for lawful evictions.
“The Commission noted that even though the erection of structures on waterways had caused severe flooding in parts of the country and therefore recognises the need to demolish some structures in the affected community, it is important to note that government and specifically the AMA acknowledges its obligation under international human rights and humanitarian law consistent with UN Basic Principles and Guidelines on the Right to Remedy and Reparation for Victims of Gross Violations of International Human Rights Laws and Violations of International Humanitarian Law to provide adequate accommodation to victims affected by the demolition exercise,” the statement indicated.
While calling on government to ensure that no one is “arbitrarily deprived of their property or possession, as a result of the demolition exercise”, The Commission also recommended that the “relevant authorities should be consulted adequately with affected persons in advance with a view of eliciting critical comments on the adverse impact of the demolition among others.”
Follow due process
The Commission also urged residents who have been affected by the demolition exercise to follow due process in expressing their grievances.
It further called on the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, as well as the Gender Ministry to take urgent steps to engage the leadership of persons affected by the demolition.
It also expressed its willingness to collaborate with government and the AMA to find effective ways of dealing with challenges that emanate from forced evictions.
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By: Marian Efe Ansah/citifmonline.com/Ghana
Follow @EfeAnsah