The Gender Centre for Empowering Development (GenCED) has strongly condemned what it describes as sexually suggestive, degrading and misogynistic remarks directed at Madam Akosua Manu, during recent public exchanges on social media.
According to the organisation, women who participate in public life continue to face gender-based harassment, online abuse, sexualised attacks and intimidation simply for exercising their democratic rights.
The latest controversy stems from a prolonged social media feud between Madam Akosua Manu, popularly known as ‘Kozie’, a former Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), and the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene.
The exchanges began several months ago after Dr Amoakohene posted an image of former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in diapers on social media, a move widely interpreted by New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporters as an attempt to ridicule the former Vice President.
As Special Aide to Dr Bawumia, Kozie, responded by urging the minister to show respect to the former Vice President and the office he once occupied.
Dr Amoakohene subsequently made a social media post using the phrase “Akosua Kumaa”, a term that has since generated public debate over its meaning and implications.
Tensions resurfaced a few days ago when Kozie made a Facebook post unrelated to the minister. Dr Amoakohene joined the discussion and mocked her, prompting a sharp response.
“Prompt your tailor to give allowance to your clothes so it doesn’t cut oxygen to your brain. We need you lucid enough to attempt to solve the problems in Ashanti Region,” Kozie wrote.
The minister’s response reignited controversy, with critics describing it as misogynistic and inappropriate.
GenCED Raises Concern
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Madam Esther Tawiah, GenCED described the remarks as offensive and incompatible with the standards expected in a democratic society.
The organisation noted that such comments undermine the dignity of women in politics and reduce their contributions to public service to sexualised stereotypes.
“Women in politics already face significant barriers, including discrimination, intimidation, online abuse, sexist stereotypes, character assassination and threats to their personal safety.
“When public officials or political actors resort to sexualised language and gender-based insults against women, they reinforce a hostile political environment that discourages women and young women from seeking leadership positions and participating fully in democratic governance,” the statement said.
GenCED stressed that while political disagreement is a normal feature of democracy, debates must remain focused on policies, ideas and leadership choices rather than personal attacks.
The organisation reaffirmed its solidarity with Madam Manu and all women who face harassment, abuse and discrimination in political and public life.
GenCED warned that the normalisation of gendered attacks sends a dangerous message that women in politics must endure humiliation and objectification instead of being respected for their competence, ideas and leadership abilities.
According to the organisation, such conduct undermines ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and inclusive governance.
It further expressed concern that the remarks appeared intended not merely as criticism, but as an attempt to demean, ridicule and sexually humiliate a female political actor.
The organisation argued that such behaviour harms not only the individual targeted, but also weakens public confidence in democratic discourse.
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