Editorial
Intimate partner violence against women must stop
All types of violence against women (VAW) have been prevalent for decades, but the rate of intimate partner violence (IPV) against women is frightening and is leaving women maimed and dead.
The Ghana Statistical Service’s (GSS) upcoming 2022 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS) Report, indicate that two out of every five women between the ages of 15 and 49 had experienced intimate partner abuse.
According to the Service, 35.2 percent of these women had at least once suffered emotional abuse, 22.7 percent experienced physical violence, and 11.2 percent experienced sexual violence.
This is a serious problem that ranks among the most pervasive breaches of human rights. It would be best to stop this IPV against women now to protect their lives.
As the world marks the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) for 2023, with “Unite, Invest to Prevent Violence against Women and Girls” as the theme, the Spectator hopes that conversations will focus on developing solutions for the pressing need to stop IPV.
The 16 Days of Activism against GBV takes place from November 25 to Human Rights Day on December 10.
In fact, in light of these concerning figures, advocates for gender equality, counsellors, private institutions, religious institutions and the government through the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MGCSP), among others should all push for measures to stop this threat.
The Spectator is of the view that because women are treated differently in some societies as they are seen as men’s property, it is necessary to re-examine social standards and destroy the systems that support gender inequity.
In times of abuse, some victims have nowhere to turn, so it is important to provide shelters for survivors and offer counselling services to lessen their difficulties.
The government needs to step up efforts to protect women from IPV by making sure that survivors have access to fair and impartial judicial proceedings.
Any type of violence should be denounced, and it is wise for faith-based organisations to provide post-marital counselling for couples to learn how to strengthen their marriages for peaceful co-existence, following pre-marital counselling.
It is time to step up efforts through education, awareness, and support services to promote women’s empowerment and dispel the harmful myths that encourage violence.
Dear Editor,
I WRITE to draw the attention of NADMO and other related agencies to the recent prediction by the Ghana Meteorological Agency to expect a lot of rains this year, especially in the Southern sector of the country.
GMet issued the forecast to provide an early warning to protect lives and property.
Interestingly, the Southern sector happens to be one of the many trouble spots in the country when the rains start.
It predicted the season to start in March and continue until July or August with above-normal rainfall along the eastern coast and nearby inland areas, including Accra, Tema, Cape Coast, Saltpond, Asamankese, Akim Oda, Koforidua, and Kade.
Knowing the problems faced as a country, concerns have been raised in certain quarters about the aftermath flooding problems in low-lying areas.
These concerns are well placed because flooding has become an annual ritual associated with the season.
My appeal goes to NADMO as well as the district and metropolitan assemblies. They are responsible for activities before and after the season.
As we prepare, they must spearhead the campaign to desilt the drainages in order for water to flow freely.
The citizenry must also show some sense of responsibility by desisting from throwing rubbish into gutters to block the free flow of water.
Noah Musa,
Adabraka
Dear Editor,
I WOULD like to express my views on why some people abuse leaders on social media platforms.
In recent times, social media has become a powerful tool for communication and expression. Unfortunately, many people misuse this freedom by insulting and abusing leaders instead of engaging in constructive criticism.
One major reason for this behaviour is frustration. When citizens feel ignored, unemployed, or affected by poor policies, they sometimes turn their anger toward leaders online.
Another reason is anonymity. Social media allows users to hide behind fake names and profiles, which gives them the confidence to say things they would not dare say in public. This lack of accountability encourages abusive language and disrespectful comments.
Ignorance and misinformation also play a role. Some people abuse leaders based on false news or rumours without verifying facts. This leads to unnecessary attacks that can damage reputations and create tension in society.
While leaders should be held accountable, abuse and insults do not solve problems. Too many people are finding social media platforms as homes to hide and churn out untruths that goes a long way to damage the image and credibility of the victims.
Constructive criticism, dialogue, and lawful channels are better ways to express dissatisfaction. Citizens must remember that respect is essential for national unity and development.
I hope this letter will encourage people to use social media responsibly and promote respectful communication.
Eugene Ampiaw,
Takoradi
