By Emmanuel Edem Akomea
In Ghana, many people don’t know their rights, not because they don’t care, but because nobody has taken the time to break it down in plain language. We hear “rights” all the time on TV, in political speeches, or on social media, but what do they really mean for the average Ghanaian?
This article is your go-to, straight-talking guide to some of the most basic legal rights you’re entitled to as a Ghanaian citizen. These are not theories , they are laws backed by the 1992 Constitution and other important Acts of Parliament.
Let’s break it down, no legal grammar, just real talk.
You Have the Right to Be Heard – Always!
Whether you’re at work, at the police station, or in court, you have the right to a fair hearing.
Constitutional Backing: Article 19(1) of the 1992 Constitution
“A person charged with a criminal offence shall be given a fair hearing within a reasonable time by a court.”
This means no one can just punish or dismiss you without giving you a chance to explain your side. EVEN IF you’re ACCUSED OF STEALING, you are INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY.
You Have the Right to Legal Representation
If you’re arrested or taken to court, you have the right to a lawyer, and if you can’t afford one, the state should provide one for serious cases.
Constitutional Backing: Article 14(2)
And the Legal Aid Commission Act, 2018 (Act 977) was created to help people who can’t afford legal services.
Don’t let anyone intimidate you with legal threats, you have the right to defend yourself properly, with support.
You Can’t Be Detained for More Than 48 Hours Without Court
If you’re arrested, the police must send you to court within 48 hours. If not, they’re violating your rights.
Backed by: Article 14(3) of the Constitution
“A person who is ARRESTED, RESTRICTED or DETAINED shall be brought before a court within 48 hours.”
If this doesn’t happen, you or your family can demand your release through a HABEAS CORPUS APPLICATION.
You Have the Right to Work – Fairly
Whether you’re a security guard, hairdresser, banker, or mason, you have the right to fair pay, safe working conditions, and protection from discrimination.
Backed by:
Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651)
Article 24 of the Constitution
Your boss can’t just sack you without notice or force you to work unsafe hours without protection. Women are also protected from discrimination, especially during pregnancy or maternity leave.
You Can’t Be Forced to Pay for What You Didn’t Agree To
Let’s say a service provider charges you for something you didn’t request. Guess what? That’s illegal.
Backed by: Consumer Protection principles under the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) and general contract law.
If a telco, landlord, or seller forces hidden charges on you, you can report them to the Consumer Protection Agency or PURC.
You Have the Right to Own Property – No Matter Your Background
Man, woman, rich, poor, the Constitution protects your right to own land, house, business, or personal property.
Backed by: Article 18(1)
“Every person has the right to own property either alone or in association with others.”
No one can take your land or belongings without due process. If government wants to take your land for public purposes, they must compensate you, fairly.
You Have the Right to Vote and Speak Freely
Your political opinion, religious belief, or tribe should never be a reason for punishment or rejection.
Backed by:
Article 21 (Freedom of speech, expression, religion, and assembly)
Article 42 (Right to vote)
So speak your mind , respectfully, and vote without fear. It’s your power.
Your Privacy Is Protected
No one, not your landlord, employer, or the government, has the right to go through your phone, room, or private conversations without LEGAL AUTHORITY.
Backed by: Article 18(2)
“No person shall be subjected to interference with the privacy of his home, property, correspondence or communication…”
You Have the Right to Education
Whether you’re young or old, male or female, urban or rural, you have the right to basic education, and government is supposed to make it free and accessible.
Backed by: Article 25
Also reinforced by Ghana’s Education Act, 2008 (Act 778)
Parents , don’t let schools charge illegal levies. And students, know that your presence in school is a right, not a favour.
If You’re Sick or in Danger, You Deserve Protection
Public health, access to emergency services, and safe public infrastructure are your right — not charity.
Backed by: Article 34(2) ie The Directive Principles of State Policy
The state must provide adequate means of livelihood and ensure that the sick and physically disabled are properly cared for.
If a public hospital turns you away unfairly, or if a building collapses because of poor regulation, the law is on your side.
Final Word: Know Your Rights. Defend Them. Respect Others.
Too many Ghanaians get cheated, dismissed, ignored or abused simply because they don’t know their rights. But here’s the deal:
a. When you know your rights, you can defend yourself.
b. When you demand better, systems get stronger.
c. When you respect others’ rights, society becomes safer and fairer for everyone.
So don’t wait till you’re in trouble before you care. Let’s teach our children, talk in our communities, and build a Ghana where the law works, not just for the powerful, but for every citizen.
Have you ever had your rights ignored or upheld? Let’s talk in the comments. Enditem
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