Editorial
Expose perpetratorsof domestic violence
MANY Ghanaian families have put protecting their public image ahead of protecting victims for decades, particularly when abuse is committed by family members or close associates.
Too many cases are being buried at the community level, with abusers protected while victims are pressured into silence.
To break the culture of silence that permits sexual abuse to flourish, a nationwide movement has been launched in Accra in order to challenge this deeply ingrained norm by urging communities to speak up, assist survivors, and demand responsibility.
The initiative was launched by Innova DDB Ghana, in collaboration with Family Renaissance International (FRI) and 3Music TV.
The programme, called “Call Them Out,” is a component of events commemorating the International Day of the Child, a global observance devoted to the protection and rights of children. Its goal is to address the long-ignored problem of family sexual abuse.
The truth is that this culture of concealment has long existed and allowed abuse to continue unchecked, but it is time “to call them out” due to the deceptive methods abusers use, the pain survivors experience, and the terrible shame that prevents victims from getting treatment.
As a result, The Spectator applauds the idea since it will help identify perpetrators so that appropriate action can be taken.
In a related development, November 25 is designated as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women every year in an effort to raise public awareness of the detrimental effects that violence against women has on people’s health.
The annual observance, designated by the United Nations General Assembly, is a period of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, observed from November 25 to December 10 since 1981.
This year’s campaign is on the theme: “Unite! End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.”
It is unfortunate and sad that gender-based violence is one of the most pervasive human rights violations in Ghana.
What worsens the situation is that many victims of violence endure the persistence of sexual and physical abuse within families, a subject often shrouded in silence.
The Spectator calls on traditional authorities, religious leaders and community influencers to stop shielding perpetrators of gender-based violence and allow the law to work.
An enabling environment should be created to protect women and girls so they will feel safe in their own homes and be free from sexual violence.
The media should use their platforms to condemn abuse and intensify education, for no person should “die in silence’’ in a society that values dignity.
Additionally, we urge victims not to feel too intimidated to report, because support services are available to all, regardless of age or social status. Women, girls, men and boys should remain vigilant, support peers, and serve as advocates for early reporting and accountability.
We hope the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MGCSP) will hasten the construction of shelters promised for the 16 regions to strengthen protection systems for survivors of abuse.
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Dear Editor,
The performance of the Black Stars of Ghana has plunged the entire nation into a joyful mood.
Very few people gave the team any chance at the World Cup but with the little they have shown, Ghanaians have shown massive support.
All the two matches they have played with England and Panama have been characterized by unending joy after the games.
Apart from the team’s performance, the theme song by Ghana’s ace musician, Kofi Kinata have taken the celebration to a new dimension.
The song resonates through every corner both match and non-match days. And when they are played through the large speakers, it gets both young and old dancing their hearts out.
This is a mood I wish Ghanaians would sustain for a long time to keep the unity and friendship among us. Within this period, politics have been relegated to the background and football dominating the discussion. This is what football can do, let’s keep it growing. For the Black Stars, we say ‘Ayekoo.’
Mawuli Quaye,
Accra
Dear Editor,
I have, over time, observed the growing practice of drying washed clothes on the pavements of some principal streets in Accra, as well as on the grassy medians of major roads.
This practice is often carried out by individuals who have made these public spaces their place of abode.
As a country that seeks to maintain a clean, orderly, and beautiful environment, I believe it is time for the government, through the relevant local authorities, to address this issue.
The use of pavements and road medians for drying clothes undermines efforts to promote cleanliness and urban beautification.
Furthermore, this situation could negatively affect Ghana’s tourism industry. Tourists who visit our country do not only come to see historical landmarks and tourist attractions; they also pay attention to the cleanliness, organization, and general appearance of our streets and public spaces.
The sight of clothes hanging on pavements and road medians creates an impression that is inconsistent with the image of a modern and welcoming city.
Equally disturbing is the practice of bathing children on road medians and street pavements. Apart from raising concerns about public hygiene and safety, such activities diminish the dignity and proper use of these public spaces.
As a concerned citizen, I believe that if we are truly committed to keeping our cities clean, attractive, and conducive to tourism and investment, then we must take decisive action.
Local authorities should enforce existing bylaws and regulations governing the use of public spaces and implement measures to prevent such practices.
By doing so, we can preserve the beauty of our cities and project a positive image of Ghana to both residents and visitors alike.
Kojo K,
Madina
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