Ghana Enacts Anti-LGBTQ Bill Amidst Controversy and Rights Concerns

 

Ghana's Parliament has officially enacted the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ bill. The decision follows a series of deliberations and considerations by lawmakers. Despite opposition from figures like Professor Audrey Gadzekpo, who argued that the bill infringes on fundamental human rights, including dignity, freedom of speech, and association, Parliament passed the bill.

Prof. Gadzekpo emphasized the importance of upholding rights for constitutional democracy, cautioning that tampering with these rights could jeopardize Ghana's democratic principles. Concerns were raised about the bill impacting media freedom, with the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD) highlighting potential penalties for journalists and social media users reporting on LGBTQI+ issues.

The "Big 18" and Human Rights Coalition, alongside CDD, urged Parliament to reject the Anti-LGBTQI Bill, stressing the significance of safeguarding the rights of all citizens. They warned that passing the bill would not only violate domestic and international human rights standards but also undermine the media's role in society.

The enacted bill criminalizes and prescribes penalties for LGBT activities, including a 6-month to 3-year jail term for individuals involved, and a 3 to 5-year jail term for promoters and sponsors of such activities.

Also trending: Ghana's Parliament Passes Amendment to Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, Reducing Sentences for LGBTQ Allies

Celebrities and Individuals with Suspicious Wealth to Face Lifestyle Audits by Ghana’s EOCO