News
Ghana Police: Denying Spouse sex can land you in jail
A senior Ghana Police officer has sparked debate by stating that withholding sex from a partner can be considered emotional abuse, punishable under the country’s domestic violence laws. Assistant Commissioner of Police, Dennis Fiakpui, said denying a spouse sexual relations can cause emotional distress and attract legal consequences.
Under Ghana’s Domestic Violence Act 732 of 2007, such actions are recognized as emotional abuse. “Denying your partner sex can amount to emotional abuse,” Fiakpui warned. Women who refuse their husbands sex could face up to two years’ imprisonment if convicted, but the law applies equally to both genders.
Other actions causing emotional pain, like refusing a partner’s food or habitual late-night returns, can also be reported to the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVSSU). Fiakpui urged those feeling emotionally abused to seek help, saying “don’t suffer in silence.”