Jesus’ mother wasn't called Mary Joseph; it’s no longer relevant to use husband’s name — Judge

A High Court Justice Alexander Osei Tutu says it is no longer relevant or necessary for married women to take their husband's surname.

The judge made these remarks while speaking on Accra-based JoyNews' The Law on Sunday, July 7, arguing that the long-standing tradition originated from English customs intended to subjugate women.

Justice Osei Tutu traces the practice back to ancient English common law from the 11th century, which deemed married women as having no independent legal identity from their husbands.

“So if you marry as a woman, your husband's identity covers you," he said.

The judge explained that Christian theology was later used to justify this tradition by citing passages that call for wives to submit to their husbands.

However, Justice Osei Tutu stresses that nowhere in the Bible did women take on their husband's name upon marriage.

“Eve was never called Adam Eve. Jesus' mother was not called Mary Joseph," he noted.

The tradition served to demean women and diminish their own identity, according to the High Court judge.

As women have gained more independence and rights over the centuries, Justice Osei Tutu believes it is time to reconsider carrying on the antiquated English custom.

“We need to reconsider our adoption of the 'Mrs' and the use of the husband's name," he stated.

With legislation now empowering women's autonomy, the judge says there is no longer any valid justification for married women to abandoned their birth names.