Otiko Djaba justifies ‘short skirt attracts rape’ comment

Gender minister Otiko Djaba has justified her call for school girls to desist from wearing skimpy dresses because they appeal to rapists.

According to her, the caution was a sincere advice from a mother to her daughters.

Addressing students of the Krobo Girls Presbyterian Senior High School in the Eastern region, Otiko urged the students to be mindful of what they wear since their choice of dressing can court trouble for them.

“In conclusion, I want to say to you, be bold, be confident, be respectful. If you wear a short dress, it’s fashionable but know that it can attract somebody who would want to rape or defile you. You must be responsible for the choices you make,” she said.

The comments have been heavily condemned by a section of Ghanaians, with some accusing her of condoning sexual attack on women.

But reacting to the criticisms, the National Women Organiser of the governing NPP said her intention was not to encourage rape against young girls.

“It was a strong advice from a mother to her children. I wasn’t in anyway encouraging rape with my comments. I have daughters and if they dress in a certain way and they are going out, I call them and ask them to change it or wear another clothing over what they are already wearing.

“Any good parent will say what I said. In this world there’s no right without responsibility. When I talk to young girls about their rights it’s in order, when I talk to them about their rights it’s also in order. This is a democracy but the best interest of the girls must be ensured at all times and we shall always work towards that,” she told Kasapa FM Tuesday.