Rights Advocate Condemns MP’s ‘Marriage’ Remark to Minor
Calls for leaders to promote empowering messages that inspire girls, not stereotypes.
Human Rights Advocate and Executive Director of the Purim African Youth Development Platform, Rev. Hornam Adzraku-Kevi, has criticised comments made by the Member of Parliament for Ahafo Ano South East, Yakubu Mohammed, to a minor during a visit to Parliament, describing the remarks as inappropriate and harmful to efforts aimed at empowering girls.
The comments, captured in a widely circulated video, have generated public debate over the conduct of public officials when interacting with children. In the video, the legislator complimented the girl’s appearance and remarked that he would marry her when she grows up. “You are very beautiful; when you grow up, I will marry you, so she is my wife; in future she will also be an MP,” Mr. Mohammed said.
Speaking on Citi News, Rev. Adzraku-Kevi argued that such statements reinforce long-standing stereotypes that define women and girls by their appearance rather than their abilities, aspirations, and leadership potential. She said public officials, policymakers, and other influential figures should use their platforms to encourage young girls to pursue education, develop their talents, and aspire to positions of leadership instead of promoting narratives that diminish their worth.
“These are the stereotypes that we speak against. It is important that we, as policymakers, leaders, and stakeholders, promote a positive image of women and girls. Women are not only images of sex; women are not sex objects. Women can be empowered, and women can occupy high policy decision-making positions,” she stated. Rev. Adzraku-Kevi further emphasised that women have consistently demonstrated their competence across various sectors and should be recognised for their contributions to national development rather than being viewed through a sexualised lens.
She urged leaders to be mindful of the language they use around children, noting that public figures have a responsibility to create an environment where young people—especially girls—can grow in confidence, pursue their ambitions, and participate fully in leadership and decision-making without being constrained by harmful stereotypes.
The incident has intensified discussions on child protection, gender equality, and the responsibility of public office holders to model respectful and appropriate behaviour in their interactions with minors.
Source: Citi News
Author: Joyce Owusu
