Parents who neglect their children may soon face serious consequences, according to Elder Ntiamoah Boateng, the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipal Director of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ).
Speaking to Okyeame Radio in Bibiani, Elder Ntiamoah revealed that CHRAJ has the authority to issue maintenance orders compelling irresponsible parents to provide care and support for their children, in line with the Children’s Act.
“No parent can shirk their responsibilities without facing the law,” he stressed.
He explained that punishments for neglect vary depending on the judge presiding over the case. Possible sanctions include fines, transferring custody of the child to a responsible guardian while the negligent parent continues to provide financial support, or imprisonment for a minimum of twelve months.
Elder Ntiamoah also clarified that under the Ghanaian Constitution, individuals are considered adults at 18 and cannot legally accuse their parents of neglect after that age.
However, parents still bear a responsibility to support their children’s education, particularly at the university level.
The Director’s message comes as a reminder to parents in the municipality that children’s rights are protected under both the Children’s Act and the Domestic Violence Act.
“It is a collective responsibility to ensure that our children grow in safe, nurturing, and supportive environments,” he said.
For many residents, the statement resonates deeply. Mary Owusu, a single mother of three in Bibiani, noted, “It is comforting to know that the law protects our children. Parents must not take their responsibilities lightly.”
