Deputy Attorney-General Diana Asonaba Dapaah says betrothal of individuals below 18 years of age, whether to another person or deity, is legally prohibited in Ghana.

She emphasised that Ghanaian laws clearly define the age of a child and the legal age for marriage.

While acknowledging the importance of preserving cultural practices, she pointed out that the Constitution prohibits customs that endanger or harm the welfare of a child.

She told JoyNews’ Newsfile host Samson Lardy Anyenini on Saturday, April 6, that, “It is neither here nor there whether 12, whether 15 or 16 - of course, I’m mindful of Section 122 of Act 560 on the determination of the age of a child.

"It is key only for purposes of ensuring that Section 14 has not been breached and clearly, the argument being thrown out there whether, 12, 15 or 16 still does not meet the age criteria.”

She added, “Whether 12, 15 or 16, the law is clear if you look at section 14. And for me, I keep saying that this event is a good opportunity for us as Ghanaians to re-sensitise ourselves."

Mrs Asonaba Dapaah's comment is in reaction to the recent controversy surrounding the marriage ceremony involving Gborbu Wulomo Nuumo Borketey Laweh XXXIII and a 12-year-old girl, at Nungua in Accra on March 30.

The 63-year-old priest faced significant public backlash following the ceremony.

Various institutions, including the Gender Ministry, Ghana Psychological Association, and civil society organisations, condemned the act.

In response to criticisms, the office of the Gborbu Wulomo issued a statement clarifying that the 12-year-old girl was not married to the Wulomo but to the Gborbu deity.

The Deputy AG provided additional insight, highlighting that regardless of whether the girl is currently 12 years old or approaching 16 years old, the law strongly opposes her marriage to the 63-year-old priest.

The GaDangme Council also clarified that the relationship between the Gborbu priest and the 12-year-old girl is a betrothal, not a marriage.

But, Mrs. Dapaah reiterated that betrothing a child below 18 years old is not permissible under the country's constitution.

She referenced Section 14 of Act 560, which defines a child as someone under 18 years old.

“Even Section 1, defines a child within the context of Act 560 as 18 so whether 12, 15 or 16 and if we are evoking Section 14, why are we discussing even 12, 15 or 16? But of course, as part of the prosecutorial process on evidence, it is important to determine the age only to ensure that the child is 18 or not but 12, 15 or 16, I’m afraid still doesn’t cut it,” she underscored.