Tourism Minister Condemns Attacks on Joyce Bawah Mogtari Over Her Handbag

Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, has strongly criticized individuals who have been questioning the type of handbag carried by Joyce Bawah Mogtari, a prominent figure in Ghanaian politics. The Minister described the attacks as appalling and questioned the motives of those making such remarks.

In a passionate statement, Gomashie expressed disbelief that men who ought to know better would focus their attention on a woman’s personal belongings rather than engaging with substantive issues. She described their conduct as an display of effrontery and audacity that should not be tolerated in public discourse. According to her, such criticisms reveal more about the critics than about the person being targeted.

The Minister further challenged those making the remarks to reflect on their own families. She asked how many women of Mogtari’s caliber they could boast of within their own households. This, she suggested, would help them appreciate the achievements and stature of the woman they were so casually ridiculing.

Gomashie noted that women in public life are too often subjected to petty and sexist scrutiny that has nothing to do with their competence or contributions. She stressed that focusing on a woman’s handbag rather than her ideas, work, and impact is a distraction that undermines meaningful political engagement. She called on Ghanaians to reject such misogynistic tendencies and instead hold leaders accountable on matters of substance.

The Minister reaffirmed her solidarity with Mogtari and with all women who endure unwarranted personal attacks simply for occupying public space. She urged society to respect women’s dignity and to judge them by their character and service rather than by their possessions.

Gomashie’s remarks serve as a strong reminder that gender-based ridicule has no place in Ghana’s public life, and that women of achievement deserve respect, not petty criticism.

Akwasi6 [email protected]