The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has strongly denounced a disturbing case of child abuse involving a six-year-old child in Asamankese, following reports that the child was subjected to severe mistreatment after bed-wetting—an issue widely recognized as a normal developmental and medical condition among young children.
In a statement dated December 15, the Ministry expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as a troubling reminder of the vulnerabilities children continue to face in some care environments. According to the Ministry, no child should ever be punished, shamed, or physically harmed for circumstances that are entirely beyond their control.
The statement emphasized that bed-wetting, medically referred to as nocturnal enuresis, is neither a deliberate act of disobedience nor a moral shortcoming. Rather, it is a common childhood condition that often resolves with time and appropriate medical or psychosocial support. The Ministry stressed that responding to such a condition with violence or humiliation reflects a profound misunderstanding of child development and health.
MoGCSP further described the incident as a serious failure of caregiving responsibility, noting that caregivers are legally and morally obligated to protect children under their care. The Ministry underscored the need for the strict enforcement of child protection laws to serve as a deterrent against similar acts of abuse, while also highlighting ongoing efforts to intensify public education on child rights and welfare.
Reaffirming its commitment to child safety, the Ministry stated that every child is entitled to live in an environment that guarantees safety, dignity, and compassionate care at all times—whether at home, in school, or within any other caregiving setting. It therefore called on the appropriate authorities to launch a comprehensive investigation into the Asamankese incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable, while placing the physical and psychological recovery of the affected child at the forefront of all interventions.
In addition, the Ministry appealed to parents, guardians, and institutions to seek professional medical and psychosocial guidance when dealing with childhood health or developmental challenges. It stressed that addressing such issues requires patience, understanding, and informed support, rather than punitive measures.
“As a society, we must recommit ourselves to protecting children, speaking out against all forms of abuse, and fostering safe spaces where every child can grow and thrive without fear,” the statement concluded.
The Ministry also urged members of the public to remain alert and proactive in reporting suspected cases of abuse. Reports can be made through the Domestic Violence Call Centre on 0800-111-222, the Ministry’s Helpline of Hope on 0800-800-800 or 0800-900-900, or at the nearest police station.
Story by Freedom Lavoe/ahotoronline.com