In a recent statement, the GaDangme Council made it clear that the contentious relationship between a 12-year-old girl and a traditional Ga priest is a betrothal rather than a marriage.
The explanation follows backlash against Nuumo Borketey Laweh XXXIII, the 63-year-old Gborbu Wulomo, following the internet release of a video purportedly showing their customary rite.
The ceremony, which happened in Nungua on Saturday, March 30, 2024, generated a lot of media attention and a public uproar. Gborbu Wulomo, however, justified his actions by claiming that the girl was too young to be expected to perform marital duties.
In a statement released on Monday, April 1, under the signature of its president, Ayikoi Otoo, the GaDangme Council stated that it had discussed the problem with Gborbu Wulomo and a few of his elders.
The Council stressed how crucial it is to make it clear that the connection has different legal ramifications as a betrothal than as a marriage.
As stated in the initial article, “We are inclined to side with the Gborbu Wulomo since there was another ceremony that awaited the girl to purify and prepare her for procreation,” the statement said.
The Council emphasized that although a betrothal may involve a minor, it does not allow for the beginning of a sexual connection with a kid.
Due to immature organs and probable health hazards following birth, such behaviors endanger the child’s education.