Hawa Koomson Leads 'Justice For Our Girls' Demo in Obuasi

The Women's Wing of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) led a peaceful demonstration in Obuasi, Ghana, on November 6, 2026, to demand justice for 19 female students of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS) allegedly sexually abused by the school's headmaster. The demonstration, dubbed "Justice For Our Girls," aimed to end violence against girls and demand absolute safety and equal rights for the girl child. NPP's National Women's Organiser, Mavis Hawa Koomson, spearheaded the event.

The case gained national attention following an investigative report by journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni, titled "Inside the Dreaded Headmaster's Bungalow." The report detailed allegations of rape, sexual harassment, and sexual assault against the school's headmaster, Mr. Zakaria Abdulai, with 19 female students recounting alleged incidents of sexual misconduct over a two-year period, allegedly in his campus bungalow. Mr. Abdulai has denied the allegations and plans to pursue all lawful avenues to clear his name.

The allegations have not been tested in court. However, the Minority Women's Caucus, led by Deputy Minority Leader, Patricia Appiagyei, has demanded an independent inquiry into when authorities first knew about the allegations, what they did, and whether political interference contributed to delays. Mrs. Appiagyei expressed concern that "frightened schoolgirls should not have to navigate official machinery unaided before the state takes an interest in their safety."

Former Gender Minister, Otiko Djaba, also commented on the issue, stating that "the law, as we have seen, has failed us. The system has failed the girls." The NPP Women's Wing's demonstration was peaceful and lawful, in accordance with Article 21(1)(e) of the 1992 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of assembly. The event aimed to show solidarity with the victims and their families and push for immediate decisive action to ensure no girl is ever failed by the system again.

The demonstration was part of a broader effort to address violence against girls and promote equal rights for the girl child. Hawa Koomson's leadership of the event underscored the NPP's commitment to supporting victims of sexual abuse and advocating for their rights. The party's efforts to address the issue have been welcomed by many, who believe that decisive action is needed to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Obuasi Senior High Technical School headmaster's alleged misconduct has sparked widespread outrage and calls for action. Many have expressed concern about the safety of students in schools and the need for authorities to take swift and decisive action to prevent similar incidents. The case has also highlighted the importance of protecting the rights of girls and promoting a culture of respect and dignity.

The "Justice For Our Girls" demonstration in Obuasi marked an important step towards addressing the issue of violence against girls and promoting equal rights for the girl child. The event served as a reminder of the need for collective action to prevent similar incidents and ensure that victims of sexual abuse receive the support and justice they deserve.

Key points

• The demonstration was led by NPP's National Women's Organiser, Mavis Hawa Koomson.
• The case involves allegations of rape, sexual harassment, and sexual assault against 19 female students.
• The Minority Women's Caucus has demanded an independent inquiry into the handling of the case.