The Member of Parliament for Tempane Constituency, Hon. Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, has strongly condemned the brutal killing of two elderly women in the Sumaduuri community of the Upper East Region. The women were reportedly beaten to death by relatives after being accused of practising witchcraft, a claim that has shocked residents and drawn widespread criticism.
In a press release dated January 27, 2026, the MP described the killings as cruel, unlawful and completely unacceptable. She called on the public to reject beliefs or customs that lead to violence and stressed that no superstition justifies the taking of human life. The incident occurred on January 23, 2026, and has deeply disturbed the local community.
The victims have been identified as Mariama Jato, aged 58, and Nachuagutugu Dunwaag, aged 75. Reports indicate that the suspects involved in the attack sought confirmation of the witchcraft accusation from a local pastor before assaulting the women. Following the incident, eight people were arrested by the Garu District Police Command. They have been charged with murder, conspiracy and abetment and are currently before a court in Bolgatanga.
In her statement, the MP extended condolences to the families of the deceased and pledged that justice will be pursued. She noted that the Constitution of Ghana guarantees the right to life and dignity for all citizens and highlighted a law that criminalizes accusing someone of being a witch. The Criminal Offences (Amendment) Act, 2023 holds individuals accountable for promoting or permitting such accusations.
Akanvariba also praised the Ghana Police Service for the swift arrest of those implicated and urged that investigations and prosecutions be carried out swiftly. She said her office will work with security agencies, traditional leaders, civil society groups and the media to help protect vulnerable persons and prevent similar violence in the future.
