Shalimar Abbiusi, the spokesperson for the New Force Movement, has described her arrest, detention, and subsequent deportation from Ghana as a deeply traumatic experience. She was deported on December 20, 2023, after being accused of using forged documents to obtain a residence permit as a student at Ghana Christian University College.
Although the charges against her were dropped by the Ghana Immigration Service and she was granted bail, she was rearrested and forcibly deported.
Speaking to Joy News after her ordeal, Miss Abbiusi recounted the emotional and psychological toll of the experience. She called on the international community to hold the Ghanaian government accountable for its actions, stressing the importance of justice and accountability in cases like hers.
“I think the feeling of being powerless was one of the hardest things and, of course, being deported and being in prison,” she said. “The whole experience was traumatic. But I just kept believing and hoping that justice would do its work and also knowing that I have people who keep fighting for me kept me strong and hopeful.”
She further reflected on the harsh realities she faced during her detention, stating, “I wasn’t aware of how serious the situation was in Ghana and the things that I have been exposed to, the people I have seen in the cells. Even though it was a horrible experience, it was an eye-opener.”
Miss Abbiusi also addressed the allegations of forging documents to secure her stay in Ghana, questioning the validity of the claims and pointing out inconsistencies in the accusations. She urged the public to critically evaluate the situation, stating, “I also want to enable the critical thinking of the people watching and listening. If I did forge documents, why were the charges dropped against me and where is the evidence? This is because there was no evidence produced in court about these so-called forged documents.”
She defended her actions, emphasizing that she had followed the proper channels to obtain her residence permit. “I obtained my permit through an official immigration officer. So, if there were any forged documents, wasn’t it one of their own who forged them? I believe that the fact that the charges were dropped against me in court speaks volumes,” she stated.
Miss Abbiusi’s arrest and deportation have raised concerns about the treatment of individuals accused of immigration violations in Ghana. The process leading to her deportation, despite the lack of evidence and dropped charges, has drawn criticism from various quarters. Human rights advocates and her supporters argue that her case highlights potential flaws in the system and the need for greater transparency and fairness.
The spokesperson’s ordeal began with an accusation that she had used falsified documents to remain in the country as a student. Despite being granted bail and cleared of the charges, she was unexpectedly rearrested and deported. Her experience has left lasting emotional scars, but she remains determined to speak out against the treatment she received and to seek justice.
During her interview, Miss Abbiusi underscored the importance of accountability, calling on the international community to take a closer look at the actions of the Ghanaian authorities. “This is not just about me,” she said. “It’s about ensuring that no one else has to go through such an unjust and traumatic experience. We need systems that are fair, transparent, and accountable.”
The New Force Movement has since rallied behind their spokesperson, condemning the actions of the Ghanaian government and calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding her arrest and deportation. They maintain that her rights were violated and that the lack of evidence against her underscores the need for reform within the country’s immigration system.
Miss Abbiusi’s experience has also sparked a broader conversation about the treatment of immigrants and foreigners in Ghana. Advocates are urging the government to address systemic issues that lead to such incidents, including better oversight of immigration processes and improved mechanisms for addressing disputes.
Despite the challenges she faced, Miss Abbiusi remains resolute. She continues to use her platform to raise awareness about her experience and to advocate for change. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding justice and protecting the rights of individuals, regardless of their nationality or status.
The spokesperson concluded her interview by expressing gratitude to those who stood by her during the ordeal. “I wouldn’t have made it through without the support of those who believed in me and fought for me. Their unwavering commitment kept me strong and hopeful even in the darkest moments,” she said.
As the story unfolds, Miss Abbiusi’s case is likely to remain a focal point in discussions about immigration and human rights in Ghana. It serves as a stark reminder of the need for fairness, transparency, and accountability in handling such cases, ensuring that justice is not only done but seen to be done.
