The Gender Centre for Empowering Development (GenCED) has condemned alleged sexually suggestive and misogynistic remarks directed at Madam Akosua Manu, saying such comments undermine women’s participation in politics and public life.

In a statement issued on June 3, the organisation expressed concern over remarks circulating on social media and other platforms, which it said were allegedly made by the Ashanti Regional Minister and were intended to demean the female political figure.

According to GenCED, the comments contained sexual undertones and derogatory language that reduced a woman’s identity and political standing to her physical attributes.

The organisation described the remarks as “offensive, unacceptable, and wholly inconsistent with the standards expected in a democratic society,” adding that while political disagreements are legitimate, “sexual harassment, misogyny, personal degradation, and gender-based humiliation are not.”

GenCED noted that women in politics already face challenges including discrimination, intimidation, online abuse, sexist stereotypes and threats to their safety.

It warned that the use of sexualised language and gender-based insults by public officials contributes to a hostile political environment and may discourage women from pursuing leadership positions.

“The normalisation of such conduct sends a dangerous message that women who enter politics must endure humiliation, sexual objectification, and abuse rather than engage in robust debates about policies, governance, and national development,” the statement said.

The organisation further argued that the alleged remarks appeared inconsistent with the Code of Conduct and Ethics for Ministers and Political Appointees, which requires public officials to use appropriate language and uphold the dignity of their offices.

“Public office carries with it a responsibility to model respectful conduct and uphold the dignity of state institutions,” GenCED stated.

The group called for an end to sexist and misogynistic rhetoric in political discourse, a public apology and retraction of remarks that demean women, and stronger enforcement of ethical standards by political parties and state institutions.

Reaffirming its support for women in leadership, GenCED said, “Women should be evaluated on their competence, leadership, ideas, and public service, not subjected to degrading comments that seek to silence, intimidate, or diminish them.”

The organisation also expressed solidarity with Madam Akosua Manu and other women who experience harassment, abuse and discrimination in political and public life.