<p><strong>Accra, Ghana &#8211; In a shocking turn of events, Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG) has expressed deep concern and condemnation over the recent marriage between a 63-year-old traditional priest and a 12-year-old girl in Ghana.</strong></p>
<p>The incident, which has sparked outrage and calls for immediate action, has brought to light the persistent issue of child marriage in the country. Despite the legal minimum age for marriage in Ghana being set at 18, the elderly priest, identified as Nuumo Borketey Laweh Tsuru XXXIII, went ahead with the union under the guise of tradition.</p>
<p>Community leaders have attempted to defend the marriage, citing customs and traditions as justification. However, HRRG has firmly stated that child marriage is a blatant violation of human rights and cannot be tolerated.</p>
<p>Reports from the ceremonial event have revealed disturbing details of the young girl being instructed on wifely duties and encouraged to enhance her appeal to her much older husband. Such practices not only perpetuate harmful gender norms but also normalize the exploitation of vulnerable children.</p>
<p>As the outcry grows louder, HRRG has called on Ghanaian authorities to take decisive action.</p>
<p>The organization in a statement signed by its Executive Director, Joseph Kobla Wemakor is urging for the annulment of the marriage, a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the union, and accountability for those responsible for violating the girl&#8217;s rights.</p>
<p>In a country where customs and traditions often clash with legal standards, the case has highlighted the need to protect the rights and dignity of all individuals, especially vulnerable children who are at risk of exploitation.</p>
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<p>Read the full press statement below:</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2369" src="https://humanrightsreporters.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Screenshot_20240402_024657-1-230x300.jpg" alt="" width="230" height="300" /></p>
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