The Gender Centre for Empowering Development (GenCED) has condemned what it describes as sexually suggestive, degrading, and misogynistic attacks directed at politician Akosua Manu, warning that such conduct threatens women’s participation in Ghana’s democratic process.
According to GenCED, while political disagreements are a normal feature of democratic governance, the use of sexualized insults, gender-based abuse, and personal degradation has no place in public discourse.
In a statement signed by Executive Director Esther Tawiah, the organization expressed concern over reported remarks circulating on social media and other media platforms, which it said contained explicit sexual connotations and derogatory language aimed at humiliating and diminishing the dignity of a female political actor.
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The organization noted that women in politics already face numerous obstacles, including discrimination, online harassment, sexist stereotypes, intimidation, and threats to their personal safety.
It warned that the use of misogynistic language by political actors reinforces a hostile environment that discourages women and young women from seeking leadership positions.
GenCED said the normalization of such behavior sends a dangerous signal that women entering politics must endure humiliation and sexual objectification rather than engage in debates on policy, governance, and national development.
The advocacy group argued that the reported remarks undermine efforts to promote gender equality, inclusive governance, and women’s leadership in public life.
Referencing the Code of Conduct and Ethics for Ministers and Political Appointees, GenCED stated that public officials are required to use decorous language, avoid offensive conduct, maintain the integrity of public office, and demonstrate courtesy and respect in their public engagements.
The reported comments, the organization said, appear inconsistent with these standards and raise concerns about adherence to the ethical responsibilities expected of holders of public office.
GenCED also situated the incident within the broader challenge of violence against women in politics, noting that gender-based harassment and abuse continue to create barriers to women’s political participation across Ghana and beyond.
The group emphasized that recent gains made through the Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Act, 2024, must be protected by ensuring that women can participate in public life without fear of intimidation, humiliation, or discrimination.
As part of its recommendations, GenCED called for an immediate end to sexist and sexually offensive rhetoric in political discourse, a public apology and retraction of remarks deemed offensive, stronger accountability measures within political parties, and the enforcement of ethical standards for public officials.
The organization also urged media institutions and social media platforms to challenge content that promotes misogyny, sexual harassment, and gender-based violence.
GenCED expressed solidarity with Akosua Manu and all women who face harassment and discrimination in public life, reaffirming its commitment to gender equality and democratic inclusion.
“Women should be evaluated on their competence, leadership, ideas, and public service, not subjected to degrading comments that seek to silence, intimidate, or diminish them,” the statement said.