Jemima Oware, the Registrar of Companies, has revealed that a significant number of marriages in Ghana are considered legally invalid.
This announcement has raised concerns about the legal status and recognition of numerous unions across the country.
This is due to the refusal of spouses to register under the Registrar General’s Department as demanded by law.
According to myjoyonline.com, She explained that churches are required to complete a form to obtain a marriage officer’s license, but unfortunately, many churches do not fulfill this requirement.
Speaking on the JoyNews AM Show, Mrs Oware pointed out that some marriages are occasionally conducted in gardens or hotels without a licensed officer, making the union void.
“The ordinance marriage is very strict. The premises has to be licensed. Sometimes, let’s say the main church is licensed, and they think that the branches therefore can take the legality from the main church, no. Even the branches have to be licensed. So, if your main church is licensed for marriages and the branch is not licensed, that marriage is void,” she added.
Mrs. Oware highlighted that all ministers of religion must be gazetted by the Registrar General through the Minister of Justice to operate as marriage officers.
The Registrar urged individuals in null and void marriages to visit the Registrar General’s Department to arrange for a special license.
