Mahama Calls for Law to Criminalise Sex-for-Jobs Practices
President urges Parliament to criminalise workplace sexual exploitation, calling it unacceptable and harmful to job seekers
- John Dramani Mahama calls for a law to criminalise sex-for-jobs practices.
- He condemns workplace sexual exploitation, especially targeting job seekers
- Government pledges to strengthen gender equality under the Affirmative Action framework
President John Dramani Mahama has called for the introduction of strict legislation to criminalise the practice of demanding romantic or sexual favours in exchange for job opportunities.
He made the appeal during an engagement at Adweso in Koforidua on Saturday, May 3, as part of his two-day “Resetting Ghana Tour” of the Eastern Region.
The President strongly condemned what he described as exploitative conduct by some employers who allegedly pressure job seekers—especially women—into romantic relationships before offering employment.
He described the practice as unacceptable and insisted it must be dealt with through the law.
“One of the worst things, and I think we should pass a bill to make it punishable, is that sometimes if the employer is male, they demand some romantic relationship before giving jobs. It is unacceptable. It must stop,” he stated.
He stressed that such behaviour must attract strict punishment, adding that Ghana cannot tolerate abuse or exploitation in the workplace.
Mr. Mahama also referenced ongoing efforts under the Affirmative Action Act, Ghana, noting that government remains committed to improving gender balance in public sector appointments.
He reiterated the target of achieving 50-50 gender parity by 2028, acknowledging it as ambitious but achievable with sustained effort.
