The Gender Centre for Empowering Development (GenCED) has strongly condemned Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene. The group accused him of making sexually suggestive and degrading remarks. These comments were allegedly directed at New Patriotic Party (NPP) politician Akosua Asaa Manu.
The controversy arose from a social media exchange. GenCED issued a statement on Thursday, June 5, 2026. The organization expressed deep concern over circulating comments. They stated these comments contained explicit sexual connotations. The language was intended to demean a female political figure.
Political debate is a normal part of democracy. However, GenCED stated that sexual harassment has no place. Misogyny and gender-based humiliation are equally unacceptable. The reported comments allegedly reduced a woman's identity. They were aimed at her sexual objectification. This behaviour is offensive and inconsistent with democratic standards.
Such conduct reinforces a hostile environment for women in politics. This includes discrimination and online abuse. It fosters sexist stereotypes and character assassination. Threats to personal safety are also common. When officials use sexualised language, it discourages women. It hinders their aspirations for leadership positions. It limits their full participation in governance.
The normalisation of this conduct sends a dangerous message. Women in politics may feel they must endure abuse. They might expect sexual objectification. This happens instead of engaging in policy discussions. They cannot focus on national development. Akosua Manu is a communications professional and NPP politician. She previously served in roles at the Office of the First Lady. She was also Deputy CEO of the National Youth Authority. She was an NPP parliamentary candidate for Adentan in 2024. She currently serves the NPP's Gender and Social Protection Committee.
GenCED is disturbed by the remarks. They appeared intended to ridicule and sexually humiliate Ms. Manu. This undermines her dignity. It also harms Ghana's efforts to promote women's leadership. It challenges the goal of gender equality. The organization also pointed to government ethics codes. Section 1.3 of the Code of Conduct for Ministers requires civility. It mandates courtesy and restraint. Public officials must use decorous language. They should avoid offensive conduct. Maintaining integrity is crucial. Public servants must conduct themselves with dignity.
The reported remarks seem inconsistent with these obligations. They raise concerns about adherence to standards. High public office demands ethical conduct. This incident must be viewed in a broader context. It is part of violence against women in politics. Female politicians face constant gender-based harassment. Online abuse and sexualised attacks are prevalent. This behaviour directly threatens efforts to increase women's representation. This is especially relevant after the Affirmative Action Act of 2024.
Ghana has made steps to advance women's political participation. All stakeholders must reject such undermining language. GenCED called for an immediate end to offensive rhetoric. They demanded a public apology from the minister. Retraction of comments that demean women is also required. Political parties must enforce respectful conduct. The Office of the President should uphold ethical standards. Media organizations have a role too. They should challenge misogynistic content.
GenCED reaffirms its position. Democracy strengthens when actors focus on ideas. They should address policies and development. Personal attacks based on gender are harmful. Women should be evaluated on competence. Their leadership and ideas matter. They should not face degrading comments. These comments aim to silence and diminish them. GenCED expresses solidarity with Ms. Manu. They stand with all women facing harassment.