Seven families to press charges against Obuasi SHTS headmaster

Seven families of girls who were allegedly sexually abused by the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS) are preparing to take legal action. Despite reports of intimidation, blackmail, and significant public pressure, these families are moving forward with formal charges. The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection is currently coordinating with National Security to protect the victims and ensure that justice is pursued in a safe environment.

The legal process faces significant hurdles as three of the victims recently withdrew from engagement with the Ministry. Gender Minister Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey revealed that these withdrawals were driven by fears of media exposure and the potential for online harassment. Dr. Lartey noted that some media reports have already compromised the identities of the victims, leading to a climate of fear. The Minister has called on journalists to exercise restraint, emphasizing that the aggressive pursuit of interviews and public exposure can cause long-term trauma and hinder the investigation.

Beyond media concerns, the families are grappling with targeted threats and blackmail. According to the Ministry, there are more than seven individuals willing to assist in the case, but many remain hesitant to come forward publicly due to the risk of retaliation. To address this, the government is working with National Security agencies to identify those responsible for the intimidation and to remove any compromising content being circulated on social media platforms intended to silence the victims.

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection remains committed to supporting the victims throughout the legal proceedings. Dr. Lartey stressed that the safety and psychological well-being of the students are the highest priorities. As the case moves toward the courtroom, the Ministry continues to urge all stakeholders, including the media and the local community, to prioritize the protection of the children over sensationalism to ensure that the headmaster is held accountable for the alleged crimes.