The Accra Circuit Court has awarded GH¢200,000 in damages against a businessman, Vince Kontoh, for breaching a promise to marry a woman after what the court described as a serious and life-altering commitment.
According to the court, the claimant successfully proved that she had invested significant time, emotions and financial resources into the relationship under the genuine belief that it would culminate in marriage.
The judgment was delivered on February 16, 2026, in Accra by Her Honour Rosemond Baah Torsu, who held that the defendant’s conduct resulted in both emotional distress and financial loss to the complainant.
Court’s reasoning
In her ruling, the presiding judge emphasised that a promise to marry is not a casual statement but a serious mutual understanding that can influence major life decisions, including financial planning, career moves and personal commitments.
The court found that the woman had significantly altered her life and financial position in reliance on the promise. Evidence before the court showed that she made substantial commitments during the relationship on the expectation that the union would be formalised.
The judge further noted that under Ghanaian common law principles, a serious promise to marry — once relied upon by another party to their detriment — can be legally enforceable. Where such reliance results in measurable harm, the injured party is entitled to compensation.
Damages awarded
The GH¢200,000 awarded covers both emotional distress and financial investments made during the relationship. The court considered the depth of the relationship, the length of time involved and the extent to which the complainant reorganised her affairs based on the expected marriage.
In an additional ruling, the court allowed the woman to continue using a Toyota RAV4 vehicle that had been in her possession. The decision was based on the fact that the businessman did not specifically request the return of the vehicle during the proceedings.
While financial damages can be granted in such cases, the court can however not order “specific performance” in matters of marriage. This means that no individual can be compelled by law to proceed with a marriage against their will.
