Deputy National Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party, Kamal-Deen Abdulai, has called for a mental health assessment of the woman accused of stealing a newborn from a hospital in Accra.
Speaking on the Joy News AM Show, Mr Abdulai stressed that while the alleged offence is serious and punishable under the laws of Ghana, investigators should also examine the psychological state of the suspect as part of due process.
The suspect is accused of taking a baby from the postnatal ward of Mamprobi Hospital, an incident that has sparked widespread public concern. Authorities have since taken the woman into custody as investigations continue.
Mr Abdulai noted that child stealing and related offences such as abduction and kidnapping attract severe penalties under Ghanaian law. However, he argued that understanding the mental and emotional condition of the suspect could provide important context for the case.
He pointed to the intense social pressure some women face regarding childbirth, particularly those struggling with infertility. According to him, such pressures can have significant psychological effects that may influence behavior, though he was quick to add that this does not excuse criminal conduct.
“Do you have to steal a baby? No. It is wrong and immoral,” he said, underscoring that any consideration of mental health should not diminish the gravity of the alleged act.
The case, has generated national debate about hospital security, maternal health challenges, and the need for both justice and compassion in handling sensitive criminal matters. Police investigations are ongoing.