The Gender Centre for Empowering Development (GenCED) has condemned what it describes as sexually suggestive and misogynistic remarks directed at former National Youth Authority deputy chief executive Akosua Manu in a social media exchange involving the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene.
In a statement signed by Executive Director Esther Tawiah, GenCED said women in public life in Ghana continue to face gender-based harassment, online abuse and sexualised attacks that undermine democratic participation.
The group said Ms Manu, a former deputy CEO of the National Youth Authority, had become the latest target of such abuse.
According to GenCED, the exchange began after Ashanti Regional Minister Dr Frank Amoakohene posted an image of New Patriotic Party 2028 flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in diapers on Facebook.
It said Ms Manu responded, asking the minister to respect Dr Bawumia and his office, after which the minister allegedly posted a comment using a Twi expression described by the group as sexually suggestive.
GenCED further cited subsequent exchanges in which the minister allegedly made additional remarks it characterised as sexually explicit and degrading.
The organisation said the comments were “deeply offensive, unacceptable, and incompatible with democratic standards,” adding that they contributed to a hostile environment for women in politics.
“Women in politics already face discrimination, intimidation, online abuse, sexist stereotypes, character attacks, and threats to personal safety,” the statement said.
It added that public officials have a responsibility to maintain civility and avoid language that demeans or sexualises political opponents.
GenCED also referenced ethical expectations for ministers and political appointees, calling for adherence to codes of conduct that promote respect and restraint in public communication.
The group called for an immediate end to sexist and misogynistic language in political discourse, as well as a public apology and retraction of remarks it considers offensive.
It further urged political parties to enforce internal disciplinary measures and called on state institutions to ensure compliance with ethical standards among public officials.
GenCED said media organisations and social media platforms also have a responsibility to curb gender-based abuse online.
Source: asaaseradio.com
