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 them as harmful and reinforcing negative stereotypes about women and girls.
The comments, which were captured in a viral video, have sparked public discussion about how public officials engage with children.
In the video, the MP complimented the girl’s appearance and suggested that he would marry her in the future.
“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 Yakubu said.
Reacting to the development, Rev. Adzraku-Kevi said such remarks undermine efforts to empower young girls by shifting focus away from their abilities, education and future aspirations.
She called on political leaders, policymakers and other influential figures to promote messages that encourage girls to pursue their ambitions and recognise their potential to contribute meaningfully to society.
Speaking to Citi News, she stressed that women have proven their capabilities across various fields and should not be reduced to their physical appearance or viewed through a sexualised 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 said.
Rev. Adzraku-Kevi further urged public officials to be mindful of the messages they send to young people, particularly girls, noting that leaders have a responsibility to create an environment where children can grow with confidence and pursue their goals.
She added that promoting respectful and empowering narratives about women and girls is critical to building a society where they can fully participate in leadership and decision-making.
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