The Circuit Court in Techiman, Bono East Region, has directed a policewoman to pay GH¢10,000 to her former partner for failing to honour her promise to marry him.
Mary Antwi, the police officer, was sued by William Baffour Gyan, who claimed she reneged on their agreement to wed.
Background of the Case
In his petition, William stated that he was in a romantic relationship with Mary Antwi and provided financial and moral support throughout their relationship. He financed her training at the Police Training School and purchased several items in preparation for their marriage, including clothing, luggage, and a ring.
William further revealed that Mary Antwi’s mother gifted him a piece of land in recognition of his support. He constructed a house on the land, intending it to serve as their matrimonial home. However, when he attempted to formalize the marriage in 2019, Mary Antwi allegedly refused, prompting him to seek legal redress.
The plaintiff requested the court to:
Declare that Mary Antwi breached her promise to marry him
Grant ownership of the building he constructed on the gifted land (digital address TO-0520-7818)
Order the return of items he purchased for the traditional marriage
Presiding Judge Samuel Djane Kotey found sufficient evidence confirming that the couple had promised to marry, and Mary Antwi’s refusal constituted a breach. However, the court also determined that not all items claimed by the plaintiff were purchased by him. William was ordered to receive only the kente cloth, white lace, and native sandals he proved he had purchased, while his GH¢30,000 claim for other items was dismissed.
The court ruled that William owns the building on the gifted land but not the land itself, as it was jointly gifted in anticipation of their marriage. The court also declined to award the GH¢20,000 William claimed for construction costs.
