The Audacity: Dzifa Gomashie Fumes Over Men Questioning Joyce Bawah Mogtari’s Handbag

Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has strongly criticised individuals questioning the type of handbag carried by Senior Presidential Advisor Joyce Bawah Mogtari, describing the scrutiny as an example of the unfair treatment women continue to face in public life.

Speaking at the 2026 Obaasima Summit, Gomashie expressed displeasure over messages she had seen from some men questioning Mogtari’s choice of handbag, questioning why a woman in a prominent public position should be subjected to such personal scrutiny.

The minister argued that the attention directed at Mogtari’s handbag reflected a troubling attitude towards women, particularly those who occupy influential positions in government and other public institutions.

According to Gomashie, the criticism was especially disappointing because it came from men she believed should understand better than to engage in such discussions.

“I’ve seen some messages by some men who should know better questioning the kind of bag Joyce Bawah Mogtari carries. The effrontery, the audacity to question a woman like this,” she said.

Her remarks highlighted what she considers a broader problem in the way women are discussed and judged in society, especially when their personal choices become subjects of public debate.

Gomashie’s intervention also drew attention to the different standards women may encounter when they assume positions of authority. Rather than focusing solely on their professional responsibilities, achievements or contributions, women in public life can find themselves facing criticism over their appearance, clothing and personal accessories.

For the minister, the scrutiny of Mogtari’s handbag raises questions about why such matters should attract disproportionate attention when women are working in demanding public roles.

The comments came at the 2026 Obaasima Summit, an event that provided a platform for discussions about women, their experiences and their place in society.

Although public figures often attract attention because of their positions and visibility, Gomashie’s remarks suggest that there should be limits to the personal criticism directed at them.

Her comments also reinforce the argument that women should be evaluated fairly on the basis of their work and contributions rather than subjected to unnecessary scrutiny over personal decisions that do not affect their official responsibilities.

Mogtari, who serves as a Senior Presidential Advisor, is among the women holding prominent positions within Ghana’s political establishment.

The minister’s defence of her underscores the importance of solidarity among women in leadership and the need to challenge attitudes that can undermine their dignity.

Gomashie’s message was direct: questioning a woman’s personal choices in a manner she considers disrespectful should not be normalised simply because that woman occupies a public position.

By calling out the criticism, the minister has added her voice to the wider conversation about respect, gender expectations and the challenges women continue to navigate in public life.

Abaah Clement feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com