Policy analyst urges Ministry of Gender to ensure justice for burned child

Aldallah Musah Alhassan, a policy analyst with the New Ghana Social Justice Forum, has called on the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection to exercise its authority to ensure that Aysha Zakaria faces the full rigor of the law for the heinous act of burning the private part of a seven-year-old girl.

He commended the Nima Division of the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) for their swift action in arresting the suspect, describing it as a commendable example of effective policing and protection of vulnerable children.

Alhassan, however, lamented that in many Zongo communities, perpetrators of such crimes are often forgiven under the guise of religious beliefs — with the common phrase “let’s forgive, it is the will of God.”

He cautioned that such attitudes enable criminals to escape justice, saying, “Many who should be behind bars are walking free.”

He emphasised the urgent need to promote child rights and community education to prevent further abuse and exploitation of children.

Alhassan also appealed to the media to intensify advocacy campaigns against the rising cases of domestic violence across Ghana.

Furthermore, he called on the government to abolish the high medical costs associated with the treatment of victims of violent abuse, explaining that the financial burden discourages many victims and their families from pursuing justice.

Alhassan also proposed the establishment of a Victims Support Unit — a dedicated body where abused persons can report incidents and receive legal, psychological, and financial assistance.

He noted that many victims face difficulties dealing with law enforcement due to poor communication and a lack of funds to navigate the bureaucratic system.

“Justice should not depend on who can afford it,” Alhassan stressed.

“The state must protect the weak and ensure that every victim has access to justice and rehabilitation.”