Wednesday, 26 November

GPRTU calls on Gender Ministry to clarify marital consent laws

News
Mr. Abass Imoro

The Industrial Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Mr. Abass Imoro, has urged the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection to review Ghana’s marital consent laws, citing widespread misunderstandings among citizens, particularly drivers, about how the law applies within marriage.

Speaking at the launch of the 2025 edition of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Mr. Imoro highlighted that many people mistakenly believe a husband cannot face legal consequences for disregarding his spouse’s wishes during intimate relations—a misconception he described as “very common and very dangerous.”

He emphasised that Ghanaian law affirms every person’s right—including married women—to withdraw consent at any time, and failing to respect that withdrawal may constitute a criminal offence.

“A lot of drivers and members of the public think that once two people are married, certain rights cannot be violated.

But the law clearly states otherwise.

Because of this confusion, many feel the law is unfair or unclear,” he said.

Mr. Imoro called on the Gender Minister to either review the current provisions or intensify public education to ensure citizens understand their rights and responsibilities under the law.

He further announced that the GPRTU is ready to collaborate with the Ministry to implement awareness campaigns at lorry stations, where many of these misconceptions originate.

 

The appeal underscores the need for stronger public engagement to ensure that marital consent laws are both understood and respected across Ghana.

Source: Classfmonline.com/Gordon Desmond Sackitey