A disturbing accusation has emerged from Kumasi after a young man alleged that his boss—identifying as gay—sexually assaulted him (“chopped him”) during a work-related visit. The claim, brought forth via GHPage on March 5, 2025, has sparked debate and drawn attention to workplace abuse and LGBTQ+ issues in Ghana.
Allegations Surface After Routine Business Trip
According to the young man, who currently opts for anonymity, he traveled from Accra to Kumasi on a business assignment on behalf of his employer. While staying at the company hotel, he alleges his male boss coerced him into non-consensual sexual acts:
“He was never clear that he was gay… I felt violated and shocked,” the man shared, expressing emotional distress in the GHPage account.
He reported the incident to company supervisors immediately upon returning to Accra and has since taken steps to pursue legal redress.
Workplace Abuse: Unanswered Questions
Key issues now include:
- Duty of Care: Did the company provide adequate staff training on harassment and consent?
- Company Response: Internal protocols remain untransparent—we await official confirmation of any internal investigation.
- Power Dynamics & Coercion: The boss, as employer, allegedly used positional power, raising allegations of sexual violence rather than consensual relations.
Workplace experts stress the duty of employers to maintain environments free from exploitation and coercion.
Broader Social Context: LGBTQ+ In Ghana
Ghanaian society often treats LGBTQ+ issues controversially. Incidents like this raise difficult questions about consent, identity, and prejudice in a culture that, according to Human Rights Reporters Ghana, has seen an uptick in homophobic violence in recent years .
Even if consent is claimed, unequal power dynamics can make it legally and ethically invalid.
Legal Considerations: Ghana’s Framework
Under Ghana’s criminal code, non-consensual sexual acts are prosecutable—including acts done via coercion or abuse of authority. If evidence surfaces (testimony, medical records, communication), the alleged boss could face felony charges.
The victim may also claim civil damages for emotional and psychological harm.
Public and Media Response
The story has triggered extensive commentary in Ghana’s media and on social platforms. Some voices warn of false accusations, others highlight the urgent need for stronger workplace protections.
One analyst noted:
“Regardless of gender or orientation, abuse of authority must be prosecuted. Consent must always be emphasized in employment settings.”
Human rights groups have called for openness in investigation and clarity on victim support measures—highlighting that harassment and assault should be met with serious consequence, not stigma.
What to Watch Next
Key developments to monitor:
- Company Action – Will they launch an internal inquiry, support the staffer, and preserve the integrity of workplace practices?
- Law Enforcement – Has the young man filed a police complaint? Will Ghana’s justice system pursue charges under sexual assault statutes?
- Civil Society – Advocacy groups may position this case within broader campaigns for workplace and LGBTQ+ rights.
- Media Integrity – Accurate reporting and reliable evidence will be essential to avoid sensationalism or character defamation.
