Party card not certificate of immunity- Akosua Manu

Former New Patriotic Party parliamentary candidate Akosua Manu has called for an independent investigation into sexual abuse allegations against students at Obuasi Senior High Technical School. In a Facebook post, Ms. Manu warned against using political influence to protect those accused of misconduct. She questioned whether political loyalty outweighed student safety and dignity, pointing to complaints from students, teachers, and petitions to authorities.

Ms. Manu criticized the reliance on social media and investigative journalism to spur action, stating students should not have to use platforms like WhatsApp, TikTok, and Facebook to report concerns. She also expressed concern over the accused headmaster's political affiliation with the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Ms. Manu urged the party to investigate any alleged interference and hold accountable anyone suppressing complaints or obstructing investigations. She called on the Ghana Education Service to account for complaints and actions taken and advocated for confidential reporting channels for students, protection against retaliation, and professional support.

Ms. Manu appealed to Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang and Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey for support. She emphasized that political affiliation should not grant immunity from accountability, stating that student protection must take precedence over political interests.