Gifty Amoakowaa, a Ghanaian citizen, has filed a lawsuit against Peace and Love Hospital at the High Court’s Human Rights Division, alleging that the installation of CCTV cameras in the breast examination room violated her constitutional rights to privacy and dignity.
According to the suit, Amoakowaa discovered the cameras during a physical breast examination at the hospital and claims that their presence caused her significant emotional distress and anxiety. She argues that the cameras breached her right to privacy and dignity, as protected by Articles 15 and 18(2) of the Ghanaian Constitution.
Reliefs Sought
Amoakowaa is seeking several reliefs from the court, including:
– Declaration of Rights Violation: A declaration that the use of CCTV cameras in breast examination and consultation rooms violates her constitutional rights and is legally impermissible.
– Removal of Cameras: An order for the hospital to dismantle and remove all surveillance equipment from medical consultation spaces.
– Deletion of Footage: A directive for the hospital to destroy any recorded footage involving her and prohibit any further retention or use of such material.
– Damages: General damages for the emotional and psychological harm caused.
The case raises serious concerns about surveillance in medical settings and could redefine patient privacy in Ghana. The Attorney General has been put on notice, but as of the time of posting, the hospital had yet to respond to the suit. Alexander Afriyie