Condemnation of Sexist Remarks in Ghana’s Parliament: A Call for Accountability and Action

There is a troubling trend of disrespect towards women in politics, as demonstrated by the sexist remark directed at the Vice President by a prominent member of the NPP who referred to her as a
“witch.” Additionally, the recent occurrences in Parliament where Honourable Zanetor Rawlings
was called the “daughter of a murderer” and the Clerk of the Appointments Committee was
disparaged warrant scrutiny and unequivocal condemnation. Such remarks not only undermine the
professionalism of our lawmakers but also reinforce harmful stereotypes and perpetuate the
patriarchal and misogynistic culture that continues to hinder women from participating fully in
public life.

It is very concerning that such remarks, exposing the sexism and disrespect faced by women in
leadership, emerge in the corridors of power, especially at Parliament, the very institution tasked with creating laws and policies that affect the lives of Ghanaians. The derogatory comments, highlighting the alarming reality that women leaders are not only dismissed but also demeaned in profoundly degrading ways, belong to the museum of bad manners, not in a democratic society.

Even more unsettling is the deafening silence that ensued after these incidents. The entire
Parliament, including the female and NDC MPs, have failed to address or condemn the behaviour.
This silence is not merely a passive reaction; it is a complicit act that perpetuates an environment
of disrespect towards women in public office.

Moreover, the so-called women advocacy groups and personalities, who ought to be vocal in advocating for women’s rights, have also remained silent regarding this blatant sexism. The absence of a prompt, strong, and unified response from these groups and persons is concerning, mainly when women in leadership are openly disrespected. What precedence are we setting?

This silence speaks volumes about the present state of gender equality in Ghana. It shows how deeply entrenched the culture of misogyny is in our political landscape and public institutions. It demonstrates how, despite the strides that have been made in advancing women’s rights, women in leadership continue to be subjected to disrespect, belittlement, and personal attacks.

The recent incident involving Hon. Annor Dompreh and Emefa Hcartcastle, along with the reaction
from Parliament, particularly NDC MPs, seem to suggest a pattern of selective justice against women. This tendency is precisely what we stand against.

Women in politics and leadership should not endure sexism and misogyny in their duties or be forced to navigate an environment that undermines their worth. Instead, they deserve recognition for their braveness, intellect, capability, and contributions.

Immediate and decisive action is imperative, and we need accountability now. We, some
concerned women of the land, humbly call on the Speaker of Parliament and our lawmakers to
ensure that all members of Parliament adhere to standards of respect, equality, and professionalism by investigating and addressing this behaviour appropriately. We also call on the NDC, as a political party that represents the people, including women, to take a clear stand and denounce these actions, with its Women’s Wing leading the charge in showing that they will not tolerate sexist behaviour from any quarter.

We strongly urge the NPP to take immediate and appropriate action to hold its members engaging
in such conduct accountable. Women’s rights advocates, activists, and feminist movements must
unite to condemn this behaviour. Silence is no longer an option- sexism must be challenged publicly, making it clear that no woman, regardless of her position, should subjected to such verbal abuse.

It is time for Ghana to move forward; thus, it is necessary to call for change. Women’s rights must
be prioritized and cannot be regarded as secondary. We must not continue to tolerate political leaders who use their platforms to demean, insult, and silence women. To create a truly equitable society in Ghana, it is essential to ensure that all voices, particularly those of marginalized groups such as women, are treated with the utmost respect and dignity.

Let us act now to uphold the dignity of women in Ghana’s Parliament, politics, and across all sectors. Our voices deserve to be heard, and our leaders must embody the principles of respect, justice, and equality for all.

Sources: Ruby Abena Arkoh, Mandy Lokko and Janet Akpeoklie Aposuk