The Member of Parliament for Ahafo Ano South East, Yakubu Mohammed, has apologised for comments he made to a basic school pupil during a visit to Parliament House, which generated public criticism after a video of the interaction went viral.
In a statement, the MP said his attention was drawn to the circulating video and explained that the comment was made during an interaction with pupils of The Citadel School in the Sagnarigu Constituency.
According to Mr Mohammed, he described the pupil as beautiful and said he would marry her when she grows up, but the remark was made within the context of the long-standing playful cultural relationship between the Mossi and Dagomba ethnic groups.
He explained that as a Mossi engaging members of the Dagomba community, his comment was intended as part of the friendly exchanges that have historically existed between the two groups.
“The comment was not intended to cause harm, disrespect, embarrassment or discomfort to the pupil, her family, the school authorities, the Dagomba community or the general public,” he said.
However, the MP acknowledged that, regardless of his intention or the cultural context, the remark was inappropriate because it involved a child.
“I sincerely regret my choice of words and render my unreserved and unqualified apology to the relevant authorities, the school authorities, the pupil, her parents and family, and the general public,” he stated.
Mr Mohammed said as a Member of Parliament, he recognises the responsibility attached to his words and public conduct.
He added that he remains committed to protecting and respecting the dignity, welfare and rights of every child.
The controversy follows a viral video in which the MP is heard telling the pupil: “You are very beautiful; when you grow up, I will marry you, so she is my wife. In future she will also be an MP.”
The comments generated public debate, with many people questioning the appropriateness of such remarks by public officials when interacting with children and calling for greater sensitivity in engagements with minors.
