In Ghana, coalition demands independent inquiry into Obuasi abuse
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on MyJoyOnline
The Domestic Violence Coalition is calling for an independent, survivor-centred inquiry into allegations of sexual abuse against students at Obuasi Technical High School. It also wants possible failings by school authorities examined, following the suspension of the headteacher and the removal of some education officials from the inquiry, according to a statement by its secretary Deborah Tayo Akakpo.
The Domestic Violence Coalition, a Ghanaian rights organisation, is calling for an independent, survivor-centred investigation into allegations of sexual abuse against students at Obuasi Technical High School. In a statement signed by its secretary, Deborah Tayo Akakpo, the coalition asks that the inquiry establish whether complaints and warnings were ignored and whether school officials or other institutions failed in their duty to protect.
The allegations have drawn the attention of the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Service (GES), the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Parliament and law enforcement. According to the coalition, administrative measures have already been taken, including the suspension of the headteacher and the removal of some education officials from the investigation process. The coalition commends the courage of the survivors and the role of parents, teachers, child protection officers and journalists.
The coalition calls on the authorities to guarantee psychosocial support, medical care, legal aid and school support for all the students concerned, as well as protection against reprisals, intimidation and stigmatisation. It recalls that the presumption of innocence must be respected, while considering that the inquiry must also examine the responsibilities of those charged with protecting students.
