Human Rights Advocate and Executive Director of the Purim African Youth Development Platform, Rev. Hornam Adzraku-Kevi, has sharply criticized the Member of Parliament for Ahafo Ano South East, Yakubu Mohammed, over comments made to a minor during a visit to Parliament.
Rev. Adzraku-Kevi described the lawmaker's remarks as harmful, warning that they undermine efforts to empower young girls and shift focus away from their intellect and potential.
The Viral Incident
The controversy stems from a viral video capturing the MP interacting with the young girl inside the legislative building. In the clip, Mr. Yakubu complimented the minor's physical appearance and suggested 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," the lawmaker was heard saying.
The video has since sparked widespread public debate regarding how public officials engage with children and the messaging conveyed to young visitors in official spaces.
Condemnation of Gender Objectification
Reacting to the incident in an interview with Citi News, Rev. Adzraku-Kevi stressed that women have repeatedly demonstrated competence across all sectors and must not be defined by physical appearance or viewed through a sexualized lens.
"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.
Call for Responsible Leadership
Rev. Adzraku-Kevi urged public officials, policymakers, and influential figures to exercise caution and mindfulness in their interactions with young people, particularly young girls.
She emphasized that leaders carry a national responsibility to create environments where children can grow in confidence, pursue academic excellence, and aspire to leadership without being constrained by outdated or harmful gender narratives. Promoting respectful and empowering discourse, she noted, remains essential to building a society where women can fully participate in governance and decision-making.
