Gender Ministry condemns abuse of six-year-old in Asamankese over bed-wetting

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has strongly condemned the abuse of a six-year-old child in Asamankese who was reportedly subjected to severe mistreatment for bed-wetting, describing the incident as disturbing and wholly unacceptable.

In a statement issued on Monday, December 15, the Ministry said it had taken note of the incident and emphasised that bed-wetting is a common, medically recognised childhood condition that must be handled with understanding, patience and appropriate professional support—not punishment or cruelty.

The Ministry stressed that no child should be punished, shamed or harmed for issues beyond their control, noting that bed-wetting is neither a crime nor an act of disobedience or moral failure.

According to the statement, the incident reflects a serious breach of the duty of care owed to children and highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of child protection laws to deter abuse and safeguard vulnerable children.

“As efforts to intensify public education continue, the Ministry reiterates that every child has the right to safety, dignity and compassionate care at all times—whether at home, in school or in any care setting,” the statement said.

MoGCSP has called on the appropriate authorities to carry out a full investigation into the matter and ensure that those responsible are held accountable, while prioritising the physical and psychological wellbeing of the affected child.

The Ministry also urged parents, guardians and caregivers to seek medical and psychosocial advice when dealing with childhood health and developmental challenges, instead of resorting to violence or harmful disciplinary measures.

Additionally, the public has been encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspected cases of child abuse through the Domestic Violence Call Centre on 0800-111-222, the Ministry’s Hope Call Centre on 0800-800-800 / 0800-900-900, or at the nearest police station.