Former Deputy Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Freda Prempeh, has petitioned the Speaker of Parliament, demanding that the Member of Parliament for Ahafo Ano South East, Yakubu Mohammed, be compelled to apologise publicly over comments he made to a schoolgirl during an educational visit to Parliament.
The petition follows widespread public criticism after a video circulated on social media showing the MP telling a pupil of Citadel School: “You’re very beautiful, when you grow up, I will marry you.”
Dr Prempeh, who is also a former Member of Parliament and founder of the Ultimate Women Foundation (UWF), described the comment as inappropriate and inconsistent with Ghana’s child protection laws.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Sunyani, she argued that the remarks breached the spirit of the Children Act, 1998 (Act 560), particularly provisions that prohibit betrothal or promises of marriage involving children under the age of 18.
She said the comments were unacceptable coming from a legislator and elected public official and should not be treated lightly.
“We shouldn’t tolerate such unguarded, unfortunate and inappropriate comments from a legislator and elected official, and we must strongly kick against that,” she said.
Dr Prempeh maintained that an apology issued through social media or other informal channels would not be sufficient.
Instead, she urged the Speaker to require the MP to apologise publicly on the floor of Parliament, where the remarks were made, to the child, her family, Parliament and the Ghanaian public.
She said such a step would demonstrate Parliament’s commitment to child protection and responsible conduct by public office holders.
The controversy has drawn condemnation from child rights advocates and members of the public, who have questioned the appropriateness of the MP’s remarks during a visit intended to educate pupils about the workings of Parliament.
Dr Prempeh said the Ultimate Women Foundation remained committed to promoting the rights, dignity and empowerment of women and girls and would continue advocating against practices and attitudes that undermine their protection and development.
