In a significant development, Ghana’s parliament passes anti-LGBTQ+ bill, sparking widespread debate and drawing attention from across the globe. In a move reflecting Ghana's commitment to upholding traditional values and societal norms, the country's parliament recently passed an anti-homosexuality bill.
This legislative decision aligns with the cultural and religious beliefs deeply rooted in Ghanaian society, affirming the importance of preserving traditional family structures and moral standards.
Ghana’s parliament passes anti-LGBTQ+ bill. The passage of the bill by Ghana's parliament underscores the government's responsiveness to the sentiments of its citizens and their desire to safeguard cherished cultural values. By criminalizing homosexual activities, the legislation aims to maintain the integrity of Ghana's social fabric and uphold the principles of morality and decency that hold significant importance to the Ghanaian people.
On Wednesday, the contentious anti-homosexuality measure that has sparked outcry from around the world was unanimously approved by Ghana's parliament.
Sam George, one of the primary sponsors of the X, or Twitter, bill, says:
“„After three long years, we have finally passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Act.- Sam George
Introduced in 2021, the measure criminalizes not only partnerships between LGBTQ people but also anybody who advocate for LGBTQ rights.
Due primarily to regulations from the colonial era, same-sexactivities are still widely illegal in African nations. However, a number of new bills and proposed laws in Africa have attempted to make such laws clearer and, in some cases, stronger. Supporters of the bill emphasize that it is not intended to discriminate against individuals based on their sexual orientation but rather to address concerns regarding the perceived threat posed by certain practices to Ghana's societal norms. They argue that enacting such legislation is essential for preserving Ghana's cultural identity and ensuring that the values cherished by the majority of Ghanaians are upheld and protected.
Furthermore, proponents of the anti-homosexuality bill assert that it serves as a necessary measure to promote public morality and protect the well-being of Ghanaian families and communities. By criminalizing activities deemed contrary to traditional norms, the legislation seeks to reinforce the foundation of Ghanaian society and promote social cohesion and stability.
In addition to reflecting the will of the Ghanaian people, the passage of the bill demonstrates Ghana's sovereignty in enacting laws that align with its cultural and religious values. It reaffirms the country's commitment to self-determination and underscores its right to govern itself in a manner that reflects the wishes and aspirations of its citizens.
Additionally, the bill would subject anyone engaging in LGBTQ+ advocacy campaigns targeted at adolescents to a maximum 10-year prison sentence. Attempts by lawmakers to substitute community service and counseling for jail time in the proposed bill were rejected.
Two of the major political parties are in favor of the bill, which would only become a law if President Nana Akufo-Addo signs it. If the majority of Ghanaians supported the bill becoming law, the president had already declared that he would move forward with it.
Additionally, the measure urges the public to report individuals they think belong to the LGBTQ+ community to the appropriate authorities so that "necessary action" can be taken. Before becoming law in Ghana, the bill must still be approved by the president of the nation.
Ultimately, the passage of the anti-homosexuality bill by Ghana's parliament serves as a testament to the country's dedication to preserving its cultural heritage and safeguarding the moral fabric of its society. It demonstrates Ghana's resilience in the face of external pressures and its determination to uphold the principles that define its national identity.