KOFI (AGYA) v. SARPONG

In an opinion by Annan J, the court construed Act 297 in the context of neglect of children and maintenance obligations recognized under customary law. Emphasizing statutory purpose, the judge described Act 297 as intended to promote uniformity in the handling of child neglect and to divert such matters from court proceedings where possible. Annan J rejected any suggestion that customary law responsibilities to maintain children fall outside the statute’s reach, reading the phrase "legally liable to maintain" as sufficiently broad to include liabilities arising under customary law. He further stated that the precedent in Manu v Kuma does not contradict this inclusive interpretation. The decision clarifies the statute’s scope and its interaction with customary law.