The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has condemned alleged attempts by some political figures to protect the interdicted headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School, Zakaria Abdulai, who is facing sexual misconduct allegations.
Describing those involved as “cheap men”, Mr Bagbin warned political leaders against interfering in the matter, cautioning that anyone who attempts to obstruct the process could face serious consequences.
Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, November 10, he expressed disappointment with the conduct of some politicians, accusing them of downplaying the allegations and reportedly supporting the headmaster’s bid for a leadership position despite the controversy surrounding him.
“It’s only cheap men who do that. You know? Yes. Please, let’s move away from that and do what is right. There is no society that has developed, to the best of my knowledge, by doing what is wrong. All the countries that you visit and you see they have developed; they have values that they treasure: integrity and honesty, very high,” he said.
He assured that Parliament was following the case closely and would continue to monitor proceedings to ensure justice for the students affected.
“What saddened me was the attitude of politicians. They treated it as if nothing happened. And people even dared to try to support the suspect to contest for a leadership position. That is how offensive it has gone. And we should not encourage such things at all,” he stated.
Bagbin also warned political figures against trivialising the allegations or attempting to influence the case, stressing that any interference would attract serious consequences.
“Some of us are still on the lookout. We are watching as to how this case is going to end. And those involved, particularly political leaders, if you joke with it, will punish you seriously because of this single case. We should take it very seriously. Leadership is a service, it is a sacrifice,” he said.
The Speaker also called on the Attorney General to review existing legislation and consider introducing tougher penalties to strengthen deterrence against sexual abuse offences.
Meanwhile, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has revealed that investigations into the allegations at the school are about 85% complete, with preliminary findings suggesting a possible prima facie case against the headmaster.
He said the committee set up by the Education Ministry was close to concluding its investigations, while the Police Criminal Investigations Department (CID) continued to examine the criminal aspects of the case, including alleged sexual assaults involving some students.
