A 63-year-old priest in Ghana is rumoured to have married a 12-year-old girl, an incident that has provoked intense anger and condemnation both domestically and globally. The marriage, which took place in a traditional ceremony despite Ghana’s 18-year-old legal minimum age for marriage, has given rise to grave worries over the protection and rights of children.
Nuumo Borketey Laweh Tsuru XXXIII, who is regarded as a well-known spiritual guide in the Nungua neighbourhood of Accra, wed the little girl in front of a large gathering of the community. Pictures from the occasion show the girl wearing a white dress, and it is said that guests gave her advice on what it means to be a wife and encouraged her to use perfumes to win her husband over. It is understandable that such images have sparked outrage and calls for action from the public.
As critics have correctly noted, the marriage contradicts international conventions on the rights and protection of children as well as national legislation. Young girls who marry as children lose their youth and run the danger of various health issues, fewer educational prospects, and increased susceptibility to abuse and exploitation.
Some local authorities have supported the marriage in spite of the criticism by pointing to cultural norms and traditions. But it’s important to understand that cultural customs should never take precedence over people’s rights and welfare, especially those of young children who are especially vulnerable. Concern over the exploitation of minors in the name of tradition is further heightened by the claim that the girl started the ceremonies necessary to become the priest’s wife at the age of six.
Thankfully, the law enforcement’s intervention is beginning in the correct direction to protect the girl and her rights. The authorities are carrying out their obligation to guarantee the safety and well-being of vulnerable people by identifying and defending the girl and her mother. Furthermore, the police’s involvement emphasizes how serious the situation is and how quickly such heinous human rights crimes must be addressed.
The Ghanaian government must take decisive action in response to this controversy. A resolute opposition to child marriage and a dedication to protecting children’s rights must be exhibited via legislative action and policy initiatives. Additionally, there should be a greater focus on promoting gender equality, child protection, and raising awareness of the negative effects of child marriage.
The case is a sobering reminder of the continued difficulties in stopping child marriage and defending children’s rights around the world. It draws attention to the necessity of coordinated efforts by communities, governments, and civil society organisations to end harmful behaviours and guarantee that every child can grow up in a nurturing and safe environment free from prejudice and exploitation.
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