Catholic Priest Condemns Domestic Violence in Powerful Statement

Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Adu Addai of the Catholic Archdiocese of Kumasi, Currently working in Columbus Diocese, in USA. Also a Lecturer in Social Ethics and Bioethics at Gregory the Great Provincial Seminary, Parkoso, has spoken out against domestic violence in a powerful statement.

The priest’s words come in response to a viral video showing a man violently assaulting a woman, identified as his wife, and stripping her naked.

In his statement, Rev. Fr. Adu Addai emphasized that abusiveness is a matter of values and beliefs, not a psychological problem.

He noted that common misperceptions about domestic violence persist in society and must be addressed in the justice system.

The priest highlighted that domestic violence is a pattern of coercive control, not just physical abuse, and that it’s about power, control, and domination, not conflict.

He also emphasized that excuses for such behavior, such as substance abuse or mental health issues, are not valid justifications for abuse.

Rev. Fr. Adu Addai called for the justice system to hold perpetrators accountable and provide competent representation for victims without enabling abusive behavior.

He condemned the man’s behavior in the video, stating that it’s an abuse of human dignity and a deeply disgraceful act that violates fundamental human rights.

The priest concluded that justice for domestic violence cases can be achieved through a combination of criminal prosecution, civil legal remedies, and survivor-centered approaches.

He emphasized that the perpetrator must face the law and be held accountable for his actions.

Sources: Rev.Fr.Michael Kwaku Boahene and Dominic Duut