Female genital mutilation (FGM) remains a serious concern in some Zongo communities across Ghana, according to the Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Joseph Akanjolenur Whittal.
Speaking during a familiarization visit by Parliament’s Select Committee on Independent Constitutional Bodies to CHRAJ, the District Assemblies Common Fund, and the Electoral Commission on Monday, Mr. Whittal disclosed that the illegal practice persists despite laws banning it.
“The Criminal Offences Act clearly prohibits FGM, but some communities continue to ignore the law. Unfortunately, victims often fear reporting these violations, leading to continued abuse of their rights,” he stated.
He called for intensified nationwide public education on the dangers and legal consequences of such harmful practices to protect vulnerable groups and promote respect for human rights.
In response, First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Member of the Committee, Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, assured CHRAJ that the matter would be presented to Parliament. He pledged support for stronger advocacy and education efforts to eliminate FGM and similar practices.
The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Adukwei Mensa, during the Committee’s visit, outlined some administrative reforms undertaken by the EC to educate the public on the fact that the EC cannot rig elections, and to curb the perception that it does. She also pleaded with the Committee to assist in getting the Finance Ministry to pay field workers who supervised the recent elections, noting that the Commission is currently cash-trapped.
The Select Committee, chaired by Hon. Mahama Ayariga (MP for Bawku Central), is currently conducting a series of visits to six independent constitutional bodies from Monday, May 12 to Wednesday, May 14, 2025. The aim is to assess their operational challenges and identify areas where Parliament can offer support.
Committee Members include:
Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, MP for Akatsi South
Hon. Alexander Kwame Afenyo-Markin, MP for Effutu
Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, MP for Tamale South
Hon. Abdul-Latif Dan, MP for Ablekuma Central
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, MP for North Tongu
Hon. Mohammed Amin Adam, MP for Karaga
Hon. Ernest Yaw Anim, MP for Kumawu
Hon. Andrew Dari Chiwitey, MP for Sawla-Tuna-Kalba
Hon. Lawrencia Dziwornu, MP for Akuapem South
Hon. Geoffrey Kini, MP for Nkwanta South
Hon. Peter Kwasi Nortsu-Kotoe, MP for Akatsi North
Hon. Albert Tetteh Nyakotey, MP for Yilo Krobo
Hon. Isaac Ashai Odamtten, MP for Tema East
Other members of the Committee include:
Hon. Akwasi Gyamfi Onyina-Acheampong, MP for Kwabre East
Hon. Eric Opoku, MP for Asunafo South
Hon. Abena Osei-Asare, MP for Atiwa East
