Minority Women’s Caucus demands full probe into alleged sexual abuse at Obuasi SHTS

The Minority Women’s Caucus in Parliament has called for a comprehensive investigation into allegations of sexual abuse at Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS). Led by Deputy Minority Leader Madam Patricia Appiagyei, the Caucus highlighted that at least 19 girls had made allegations against the school’s headmaster, Mr. Zakaria Abdulai.

Madam Appiagyei emphasized that the headmaster is entitled to a fair investigation under the presumption of innocence, while the students deserve protection and their complaints to be thoroughly examined. Though the government announced Mr. Abdulai’s arrest on October 20, 2026, the Caucus questioned when authorities first learned of the complaints and what actions were taken.

According to the police, a complaint filed on August 4th was investigated, and the file was forwarded to the Attorney-General for advice. The Caucus criticized the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for allegedly defending Mr. Abdulai’s candidacy for Juaben constituency chairmanship on October 19th before ordering his removal on October 20th.

They demanded a full investigation into all allegations, prompt advice from the Attorney-General on the submitted docket, and prosecution where evidence supports it. The Caucus stressed the need for protection, counseling, medical care, and legal assistance for the affected students, ensuring their confidentiality and safeguarding them from intimidation.

They also called for an independent inquiry into the handling of previous complaints and any possible political interference. The Caucus commended the students who reported the allegations to JoyNews and journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni, alongside the Asante Youth Association for seeking accountability.