In a notable development, the Judicial Service of Ghana has authorized media outlets to have unrestricted access to court proceedings concerning the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2024, widely known as the anti-gay Bill.
This decision, conveyed through a communiqué released on Tuesday, May 28, grants both radio and television media the opportunity to cover all pertinent court proceedings associated with the bill.
The move comes amidst considerable public interest in the legislation, which has ignited substantial nationwide discourse.
By granting media access, the Judicial Service aims to ensure transparency and keep the public informed about the legal process as it unfolds.
“Reference instructions from Management of the Judicial Service of Ghana regarding the public interest in cases on the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2024 (the “Bill”), permission has been granted for the media (including Radio and Television) to have full access to the relevant courts to undertake a coverage of all proceedings in those cases concerning the Bill,” an excerpt of the statement said.
At present, there are four distinct legal challenges lodged against the bill.
Amanda Odoi and Richard Dela Sky have directly petitioned the Supreme Court, contesting the bill’s validity and passage.
Separately, Paul Boama-Sefa and Prince Obiri-Korang have initiated their own challenges at the High Court.
In response to these legal maneuvers, President Akufo-Addo has opted to withhold his signature from the bill until the pending cases are resolved.
This stance has drawn criticism from the minority in parliament and various other groups and individuals.