In the wake of the controversial marriage between a 12-year-old girl and a 63-year-old Chief Priest, Former Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, has emphasized the illegality of the union. Despite the consent of the girl's parents, she has called for legal intervention by the state to address this concerning issue.
According to Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, the state has a legal responsibility to intervene in such cases of child marriage, as it is a clear violation of Ghana's Children Act, the 1992 Constitution, and international conventions on children's rights. She stressed that regardless of parental consent, the minimum age for marriage in Ghana is 18 years, making the union unlawful.
Furthermore, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo urged the government, police, and Ministry of Gender to initiate legal processes and ensure the protection of the young girl involved. She emphasized that the state's intervention is crucial in upholding the law and safeguarding the rights of the child.
In response to the public concerns raised about the marriage, the Nungua Traditional Authority clarified that the union was strictly for traditional purposes and that the minor would not be engaging in conjugal rites. The explanation provided by the Office of the Overlord of Ga Dangme highlighted the ceremonial duties that the young girl would undertake at the temple as a virgin.
However, despite the traditional justifications presented, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo reiterated that the legal framework must take precedence in such matters. She emphasized that cultural customs should not supersede the rights and protection of children as enshrined in the law.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the Gborbu Wulomo temple defended the practice, stating that it was rooted in Ga-Dangme tradition and aimed at preserving the girl's purity. He urged critics to seek understanding of the tradition before passing judgment.
In conclusion, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo's call for legal intervention in the case of the 12-year-old girl's marriage is a reminder of the importance of upholding laws that protect children from harmful practices. It underscores the need for a balance between cultural traditions and legal safeguards to ensure the well-being and rights of all children.
-source 3news | curated by Aisha Yakubu | Ghana Crimes
