Ghana marriage laws explained: Ordinance vs Customary unions – Lessons from Akosua Serwaa

The confusing court drama regarding Akosua Serwaa demands having Ghana marriage laws explained properly. Currently, many Ghanaians lack clarity on the actual legal implications of their unions. First, know that the state recognizes three distinct types of marriage. Specifically, the Ordinance marriage stands apart as the strictly monogamous option. Usually, couples finalize this process directly at the law courts. Upon completion, the registrar issues a certificate as undeniable evidence. Crucially, this legal route forbids the man from taking another wife. Consequently, a partner can sue if the other commits bigamy. Therefore, remarrying without a divorce constitutes a serious breach of this law.

However, the Ghana marriage laws explained regarding customary unions function quite differently. Secondly, we have the Traditional, Customary, or Christian marriage category. Surprisingly, a man can legally marry as many wives as he deems fit. Provided he has the financial capacity, the state allows this. Also, he must possess the ability to care for the entire household. Nevertheless, the couple can still obtain a state-recognized marriage certificate. Similarly, the Traditional, Customary, or Islamic marriage follows this exact same structure. Here, the husband also enjoys the legal freedom to practice polygamy. Thus, the “one man, one wife” rule does not apply here.

Furthermore, we must address the widespread myth of the “church wedding.” Explicitly, our culture does not recognize the church as a marriage maker. In fact, a religious body can never legally institute a valid marriage. Instead, the families of the couple bear that sole responsibility. Realistically, the church only blesses the union after the families agree. Unfortunately, many assume a church ceremony equals a monogamous Ordinance marriage. Yet, without the court registry, it remains a potentially polygamous customary union. Ultimately, having Ghana marriage laws explained brings you necessary peace of mind. Finally, do not assume your status; know the facts today. Truly, knowledge prevents you from suffering a fate like the current scandal.