The recent edition of JoyNews' 'The Law' delved into a significant yet often overlooked topic: 'Needy Husbands & The Law'. Hosted by Samson Lardy Anyenini, the discussion featured distinguished Court of Appeal Judge Justice Alexander Osei Tutu and seasoned private legal practitioner and journalist, Kuuku Welsing Jones. The panel explored the legal framework surrounding spousal maintenance, dependency, and fairness in marriage, critically examining whether the scales of justice balance equally for men.

Kuuku Welsing Jones, a key contributor to the discussion, asserted that under Ghanaian law, husbands who find themselves in financially vulnerable situations possess the same entitlement to maintenance support as wives who have historically exercised such rights. Speaking on September 28, Mr. Jones addressed the pertinent question of why men might shy away from seeking spousal support, attributing this reluctance to either an ignorance of the law or the pervasive societal stigma associated with it. While acknowledging that women have traditionally leveraged maintenance provisions, particularly in instances of separation or when children are involved, Mr. Jones noted that men frequently abstain from doing so.

He challenged prevailing cultural norms, stating, “Culturally, we always thought men should be at the forefront, but things have changed. The law makes provision for needy husbands just as it does for wives. If I fall in that category, I would go to court and let my wife take care of me.” This statement underscores a shift in societal expectations and highlights the legal backing for such claims, regardless of traditional gender roles.

Mr. Jones further elaborated on the evolving dynamics of gender roles within Ghana’s judiciary and broader society. He pointed out the significant increase in the number of female judges over the past two decades, noting that women are now asserting themselves in roles once predominantly held by men. He also referenced research indicating that as women achieve greater educational and career success, they often seek partners of comparable or higher social standing, which can introduce complexities into marital relationships. He remarked, “Women are not weaker. In fact, they are very smart, and that is why society kept them under for so long. Now they are asserting themselves.”

Despite persistent stereotypes, Mr. Jones emphasized the clarity of the law: a husband in need unequivocally has the right to seek maintenance from a financially capable wife who fails to meet her obligations. The primary hurdle, he suggested, lies in men overcoming societal stigma and boldly exercising their legal rights. The discourse brought to light the imperative for increased awareness and a change in perception to ensure that legal protections are equally accessible and utilized by all spouses, irrespective of gender.