By Elsie Appiah-Osei, GNA
Accra, Oct. 30, GNA – The Human Rights Committee of Parliament has condemned the brutal punishment inflicted on a seven-year-old girl, who suffered severe burns after her guardian allegedly pressed a hot spoon on her private parts, upper thighs, and buttocks as punishment for bedwetting.
The Committee described the act as “barbaric and inhumane,” constituting a gross violation of the child’s fundamental human rights. “No cultural, traditional, or disciplinary justification can ever excuse such violent treatment of a child,” a statement signed by Mr Ernest Yaw Anim, Chairman of the Committee, and issued to the Ghana News Agency on Thursday said.
It emphasised that the punishment breached the child’s right to dignity, protection from torture and degrading treatment, and the right to a safe and nurturing environment, as guaranteed by the 1992 Constitution of Ghana and the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560).
The statement has urged the Ghana Police Service and the Department of Social Welfare to launch an immediate investigation and ensure justice for the victim.
It encouraged the public to report all forms of child abuse to the appropriate authorities without fear or hesitation.
“The Human Rights Committee reaffirms its commitment to advocating for the protection, safety, and dignity of every child in Ghana.
“The Human Rights Committee remains committed to advocating for the protection, safety, and dignity of every child in Ghana,” the statement noted.
It added that the Committee would closely monitor the case to ensure due process and accountability.
GNA
Edited by Linda Asante Agyei