HRRG demands urgent action and justice for Kofi-A, victim of homophobic violence

The Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG) is deeply disturbed by the recent violent assault on a young boy named Kofi in Atonsu, Kumasi, which has come to our attention through concerned advocates for human dignity and justice.

This incident, which occurred between April 29 and May 1, 2025, is a stark reminder of the pervasive violence faced by members of the LGBT community in Ghana. According to reports, Kofi was lured into a room under false pretenses by a group of young men who then proceeded to brutally assault him while recording the act.

This heinous act, described as an attempt to “beat the gay out of him,” has left Kofi not only physically harmed but also psychologically traumatized, leading to multiple suicide attempts. His mother has confirmed these tragic details, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.

As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” We cannot remain passive witnesses to such brutality. Kofi’s fundamental human rights — his right to live free from violence and to express his identity without fear of persecution — have been egregiously violated.

We urge the authorities to take immediate and decisive action:

1. Investigation: Conduct a thorough investigation into the assault on Kofi. It is imperative that the identities of the perpetrators are established and that they are brought to justice.

2. Protection: Ensure Kofi’s safety and well-being. We call for psychological support and protective measures to be put in place for him and his family, who are currently living in fear.

3. Support Services: Provide the necessary legal and psychological support to help Kofi recover from this traumatic experience. Violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation is unacceptable and must be addressed with urgency.

We stand in solidarity with Kofi and all victims of violence and discrimination.

It is our collective responsibility to ensure that such acts are met with the strongest condemnation and action.

Let us heed the words of Desmond Tutu: “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.” We cannot afford to be neutral; we must act.

We call on all stakeholders, including government officials, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organizations, to join us in advocating for justice and human rights for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation.

Kofi needs us now more than ever. His life depends on our willingness to act.

Issued by Office of Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG)

Contact:0243676813