Ahafo Ano South East Member of Parliament, Hon. Yakubu Mohammed, has rendered an unqualified public apology following widespread outrage over remarks he made to a basic school pupil visiting Parliament House last week.
The incident, which was captured on video and circulated widely across social media platforms, showed the lawmaker describing a young female pupil from The Citasel School in the Sagnarigu Constituency as “beautiful” and adding that he would “marry her when she grows up.”
Addressing the public backlash in an official statement dated July 31, 2026, the legislator sought to clarify the context behind his comments while acknowledging that his words were entirely inappropriate given that they involved a minor.
Hon. Mohammed explained that his remarks stemmed from an age-old cultural tradition rather than any ill intent.
“I wish to clarify that the comment was made in the context of the long-standing playful cultural relationship between the Mossi and Dagomba ethnic groups,” the MP stated. “As a Mossi addressing members of the Dagomba community, my statement arose from the friendly and playful exchanges that have historically characterised the relationship between our two groups.”
He stressed that the statement 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.”
Despite referencing the traditional context, the Lawmaker acknowledged that cultural jokes do not excuse comments made towards children.
“However, I fully acknowledge that, irrespective of my intention or the traditional context in which the statement was made, the comment was inappropriate because it involved a child,” he noted.
Offering a complete retraction, Hon. Mohammed expressed deep remorse for the lapse in judgement and extended his apologies to all affected parties.
“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 said.
Reaffirming his commitment to his duties as a public officer, the MP added: “As a Member of Parliament, I recognise the responsibility attached to my words and public conduct. I remain firmly committed to protecting and respecting the dignity, welfare and rights of every child. I once again offer my sincere and unqualified apology.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
