Accra: The Member of Parliament for Madina and renowned human rights lawyer, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has raised critical concerns about the state of Ghanaian youth's sexual health and victim support systems. He advocated the urgent need for a shift in how sexual and reproductive health issues among adolescents were treated in public discourse. He called on Parliament to elevate these matters to the national agenda, urging lawmakers to debate them with the seriousness they deserved.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Sosu made these remarks during the launch of the National Public Speaking Competition at Parliament House on Thursday under the auspices of the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin. The competition is on the theme, 'Sexual and Reproductive Health of the Adolescent Child'.
Mr Sosu expressed deep concern that victims were often required to pay between GH?300 and GH?1,500 for medical forms to be signed by a doctor-an essential step in pursuing justice. "This is unacceptable," he stated. "We need a victims' code, similar to what exists in the United Kingdom, to ensure that survivors are treated with dignity and supported through the legal process."
The lawmaker recounted a harrowing case involving a teenage girl who was allegedly raped by 20 men. Sosu revealed that he personally intervened in the matter to ensure the perpetrators were prosecuted and jailed, underscoring his commitment to justice and victim advocacy. Mr Sosu emphasized the need to redirect the energies of the current generation positively, which he described as "misguided in so many ways."
According to the MP, the competition presents a timely opportunity to empower young people to engage meaningfully with pressing national issues. "This platform will inspire the youth to showcase their creativity and intellect," he said, adding that such initiatives were vital in shaping a more informed and responsible generation.
One of the most pressing issues Mr Sosu highlighted was the financial and bureaucratic barriers faced by victims of sexual assault in Ghana. The MP's remarks have reignited calls for systemic reforms in how Ghana addressed adolescent sexual health and supported survivors of abuse. His appeal for national conversation and legislative action signals a growing recognition of the urgent need to protect the rights and well-being of young people across the country.
