Hon. Joe Ghartey, Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan, has started an interesting trend after rejecting the bride price from his prospective in-laws. He chose to give his daughter, Ewurama Ghartey’s hand in marriage over the weekend without taking the usual dowry according to tradition. Instead, he asked for only a Bible and a ring.
In the video of the ceremony, the former Attorney-General and Second Deputy Speaker explained that he took the same items to his wife’s family when he married her, so he decided to continue the tradition.
He also added that he didn’t want to burden the young couple as they start their life as a family. Stating that he prioritizes the happiness and longevity of their marriage.
“Ewurama, God bless you. Your husband’s family brought the ring and Bible. When I went for your mother’s hand in marriage, I also took just a ring and a Bible to the family. If you so wish, when you and your husband have children, you can take up this tradition. I might be dead and gone by that time, but it will be proper to do so. I can’t force you both. You are on this journey together.”
In response, the groom and his family showed gratitude and counted themselves blessed to merge their family with Hon. Ghartey’s.
The spokesperson for the groom’s family explained the mysterious demand made by the bride’s father.
“When we came to see our father Joe Ghartey for his daughter’s hand in marriage, we had one of the most interesting conversations. He said the couple had just begun life and didn’t want to burden them. So as part of his wishes, he only requested a ring, symbolizing that this woman is married, and a Bible to serve as a guide in time of trouble.
“That was all he requested. He added that he will reject anything extra apart from the ring and the Bible. For the love we have for the woman, we went according to the request. If you see us here today, we have come with the items for her hand in marriage.”