‘An unacceptable breach’ – Hawa Koomson warns over alleged failure to act on Obuasi SHTS abuse complaints

NPP National Women’s Organiser Mavis Hawa Koomson has denounced school authorities’ alleged failure to address sexual abuse complaints at Obuasi Senior High Technical School, warning it would be an “unacceptable breach” of their duty to safeguard students. In a statement on Monday, Ms Koomson demanded an independent criminal investigation into allegations against the school’s headmaster, Zakaria Abdulai, following reports involving approximately 19 female students.

The students alleged rape, sexual harassment and assault, with some incidents reportedly occurring as early as March 2026. Ms Koomson expressed grave concern over the inaction, stating that it would amount to grave negligence of the school authorities’ responsibility to protect students’ safety, dignity and psychological well-being.

She called on the Ghana Police Service’s Criminal Investigations Department to conduct a swift, thorough and transparent investigation, urging prosecutors to pursue legal processes if sufficient evidence emerges, regardless of the implicated individuals’ political affiliations or social standing. Ms Koomson also raised concerns about possible intimidation, victimisation and reprisals against affected students and their families, calling for measures to protect their identities and ensure their safety.

She urged the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection and the Ghana Education Service to coordinate counselling, medical care and protective assistance for the students. Beyond the investigation, Ms Koomson called for a comprehensive review of child protection policies and rules governing school authorities' conduct.

She also appealed to women across the country to support efforts to secure justice and strengthen safeguards for girls, emphasizing that accountability must know no political boundaries.