Hawa Koomson demands independent probe into alleged abuse of 19 Obuasi SHS girls
The National Women’s Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mavis Hawa Koomson, has called for a swift, independent and transparent investigation into allegations of sexual abuse involving 19 female students of Obuasi Senior High School (SHS).
Mavis Hawa Koomson, the National Women’s Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has called for a thorough and independent investigation into allegations of sexual abuse against 19 female students at Obuasi Senior High School (SHS). The accusations involve the school's headmaster, Zakaria Abdulai, and include rape, sexual harassment, and assault.
Koomson requested the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service to conduct the probe, ensuring that any found guilty face the proper legal actions. She stressed that these allegations must be examined thoroughly, and that accountability should not be swayed by political affiliations or social standing.
Koomson expressed fear that the students and their families might face intimidation, victimization, and repercussions. She urged the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, along with the Ghana Education Service (GES), to collaborate with child protection organizations and other relevant support groups. These should provide assistance such as counseling, psychological care, medical attention, and other protective measures.
Koomson also demanded a comprehensive review of the GES's child protection and safeguarding policies in schools. She emphasized that the best interests of the child must remain the top priority, as per the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560). Koomson appealed to women, including the Vice-President, to show keen interest in the matter and support the efforts to secure justice for the affected students.
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