Don’t disgrace yourself,sign the anti-LGBTQ+ bill – Dormaahene tells Akufo-Addo

The Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, has urged President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to swiftly sign the anti-LGBT+ Bill once the ongoing legal procedures are resolved in the Supreme Court.

Addressing the media on March 25, 2024, Dormaahene Agyemang Badu II expressed his apprehension about the potential damage to the president’s legacy if he refrains from endorsing the bill.

He emphasized the importance of President Akufo-Addo leaving behind a positive legacy during the remainder of his term in office.

“Both the Majority and Minority in Parliament have agreed to pass the Anti-LGBT+ Bill and presented it to the president for his assent but the signing of the bill has become an issue.

“If things aren’t going right, I, Agyeman Badu II, I will say it because you are my family member (Akufo-Addo). If Ghanaians cannot tell you, I will do that.

“You have nine months to end your tenure. I don’t want you to be disgraced. Don’t let them push you into doing things,” he said.

“Let not it be said that you took money to not sign the bill, don’t let such a bad name be associated with you in your last days.

“I have heard the issue is in court, and I plead with the Supreme Court that some of us are following the law… the moment Supreme Court delivers its judgment, please sign the bill because we won’t allow anybody delaying the bill unless we are gunned down, and I don’t believe we will be gunned down because of the bill,” he added.

The anti-LGBT+ Bill, approved by Parliament, prohibits LGBT activities and deems their promotion, advocacy, and funding as criminal offenses.

Individuals engaged in these acts could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years, while promoters and sponsors may face imprisonment of three to five years.

President Akufo-Addo has postponed his decision on signing the Bill into law, citing a constitutional challenge in the Supreme Court.

Even if he opts against it, MPs can override the president’s decision with a two-thirds majority vote, making the provisions of the Bill enforceable.