The Human Rights Committee of Parliament has strongly condemned the inhumane punishment inflicted upon a seven-year-old girl, who sustained severe burns after her guardian allegedly pressed a hot spoon against her private areas, upper thighs, and buttocks as a punishment for bedwetting.
In a statement endorsed by the Chairman of the Committee and Member of Parliament for Kumawu, Ernest Yaw Anim, the committee characterized the act as “barbaric and inhumane,” highlighting that it represents a serious violation of the child’s fundamental human rights.
Mr. Anim underscored that such acts of cruelty violate the right to dignity, protection from torture and degrading treatment, as well as the right to a safe and nurturing environment, all of which are guaranteed by the 1992 Constitution of Ghana and the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560).
He asserted that no cultural, traditional, or disciplinary rationale can ever justify such violent treatment of a child, and he called for increased public awareness regarding child rights and responsible parenting.
The committee urged the Ghana Police Service and the Department of Social Welfare to initiate an immediate investigation and ensure justice for the victim. It also encouraged the public to report any instances of child abuse to the relevant authorities without fear or hesitation.
Mr. Anim reiterated the committee’s dedication to advocating for the protection, safety, and dignity of every child in Ghana, assuring that the case will be closely monitored to guarantee due process and accountability.
