Obuasi SHTS sexual misconduct: Families of victims consider relocation over stigma and victimization

Families of girls allegedly sexually abused at Obuasi SHTS are considering fleeing their communities as stigma and victimization deepen.

Gender Minister, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, says some families are being pushed into hiding, adding to the trauma of the alleged abuse, as she says some victims are now harbouring suicidal thoughts.

Addressing the gathering, the minister recounted the psychosocial distress some of the victims are enduring.

“There is an incident where one of the girls doesn’t want to return to school or engage in any activity in life anymore. She has regretted telling her story and blaming herself. Most of them are harbouring suicidal thoughts,” she said.

A delegation from the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, led by the sector minister, met with opinion leaders in the Obuasi municipality over the allegation of sexual abuse against 19 girls of Obuasi Senior High and Technical School.

Including religious leaders, civil society organisations, assembly members, old students of Obuasi SHTS and other stakeholders, the community dialogue focused on empowering victims of the alleged sexual misconduct.

The deliberation also centered on devising robust structures and mechanisms to protect children and the youth in the town against any sexual misconduct.

Dr. Momo Lartey further disclosed that some families are now relocating to avoid stigma.

“Some families are considering relocation because people are pointing fingers at them. People are rather victimizing them instead of supporting them,” she added.

As calls for justice intensify, the minister is rallying community support for the victims.

Seven families of the girls allegedly sexually abused by the headmaster are preparing to press charges against him, amidst the reported threats, intimidation and attempts to blackmail those seeking justice.

The opinion leaders want a meticulous and independent probe into the allegation.