The Gender Centre for Empowering Development (GenCED) has strongly condemned what it describes as sexually suggestive, degrading and misogynistic remarks directed at former Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority and former New Patriotic Party parliamentary candidate, Akosua Manu, popularly known as Kozie.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Esther Tawiah, the organisation expressed deep concern over comments circulating on social media and other media platforms which allegedly targeted Madam Manu with sexually charged and derogatory language.
Threat to Women’s Political Participation
GenCED described the reported remarks as offensive, unacceptable and inconsistent with the standards expected in a democratic society.
According to the organisation, while political disagreements are a legitimate feature of democracy, personal attacks rooted in sexual harassment, misogyny and gender-based humiliation have no place in public discourse.
“Political disagreement is legitimate. Sexual harassment, misogyny, personal degradation and gender-based humiliation are not,” the statement stressed.
The organisation warned that such conduct risks creating a hostile environment that discourages women, particularly young women, from pursuing leadership and political office.
Dangerous Signal to Women
GenCED noted that women in politics already face significant challenges, including discrimination, intimidation, online abuse, sexist stereotypes, character assassination and threats to their personal safety.
It argued that the use of sexualised language against female political actors sends a dangerous message that women who enter politics should expect humiliation and objectification rather than meaningful engagement on issues of governance and national development.
“Such conduct not only undermines the dignity of the individual concerned but also undermines national efforts to advance women’s leadership, gender equality and inclusive governance,” the statement said.
Ethical Concerns Raised
The organisation also questioned whether the reported remarks align with the ethical standards expected of public office holders.
It referenced the Code of Conduct and Ethics for Ministers and Political Appointees, particularly provisions requiring public officials to use decorous language, avoid offensive conduct and demonstrate courtesy and restraint in public engagements.
According to GenCED, the alleged comments appear inconsistent with those standards and raise concerns about adherence to the ethical obligations of public office.
Calls for Apology and Action
GenCED called for an immediate end to sexist and misogynistic rhetoric in political discourse and demanded a public apology and retraction of remarks that demean women in politics.
The organisation also urged political parties, state institutions, media organisations and social media platforms to take stronger action against gender-based abuse.
Reaffirming its solidarity with Madam Manu and other women facing harassment in public life, GenCED stressed that democracy is strengthened when political actors debate ideas and policies, not when women are subjected to abuse because of their gender.
