COURT ORDERS BUSINESSMAN TO PAY GH¢200,000 FOR FAILING TO HONOUR MARRIAGE PROMISE
Accra Circuit Court rules broken engagement caused emotional and financial harm; awards damages and costs to claimant
An Accra Circuit Court has ordered a businessman in his 60s to pay GH¢200,000 in damages to a woman after failing to fulfil a promise to marry her.
The decision followed a civil suit in which the woman argued that she suffered emotional distress, social embarrassment and financial hardship after the long-standing relationship ended without marriage, despite repeated assurances from the businessman.
The case reportedly began as an action for ejectment against the woman. However, during proceedings, the court found that the matter involved a breach of promise to marry and went further to impose a constructive trust over a property located in East Legon.
According to the claimant, she invested years of her life, trust and personal resources into the relationship on the understanding that it would lead to marriage. She told the court that she made significant life decisions and personal sacrifices based on the businessman’s assurances.
Presiding judge, Justice Sedinam Kwadam, ruled in favour of the woman and awarded a total of GH¢200,000 in damages, broken down as follows:
- GH¢50,000 in general damages
- GH¢150,000 in compensation
In addition, the court awarded GH¢20,000 in costs in her favour.
The judge emphasised that a promise to marry, when made seriously and relied upon, is not merely a casual statement but a commitment capable of shaping life choices and future plans.
Under Ghanaian common-law principles, a promise to marry can, in certain circumstances, be treated as legally binding if one party demonstrates substantial reliance and harm resulting from its breach.
The court also ruled that since the businessman did not specifically request the return of a Toyota RAV4 at the centre of the dispute, the woman would continue to use the vehicle.
The full written reasoning of the judgment is expected to be made available on February 24.
The ruling underscores that, in Ghana, serious promises made within intimate relationships may attract civil liability where clear reliance and demonstrable harm can be established.
Legal analysts caution that individuals should be mindful of the implications of commitments made in close relationships, particularly where such assurances influence major life decisions.
The case adds to evolving interpretations of contractual expectations and accountability in personal relationships under Ghanaian law.
Source:NKONKONSA.com
