Most marriages in Ghana are considered null and void due to the failure of spouses to register with the Registrar General’s Department as required by law,
Jemima Oware, the Registrar of Companies, in an interview on the JoyNews explained that churches must complete a form to obtain a marriage officer’s license, but many fail to do so.
She added that some marriages are conducted in unlicensed premises, such as gardens or hotels, without a licensed officer, rendering the union void.
Mrs. Oware emphasized that the ordinance marriage law is strict, requiring premises to be licensed, and even branch churches must obtain separate licenses.
She stressed that all ministers of religion must be gazetted by the Registrar General through the Minister of Justice to operate as marriage officers.
The Registrar urged individuals in null and void marriages to visit the Registrar General’s Department to arrange for a special license to legitimize their union.
