A human rights researcher, Dr. Michael Gyan Nyarko, has voiced his dissent against the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, emphasizing that his apprehensions extend beyond mere suggestions of non-custodial sentences.
In his view, a democratic society should embrace diverse perspectives and viewpoints, even amidst disagreement with others’ beliefs.
During an appearance on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, February 17, he argued that penalizing individuals for actions or beliefs divergent from others’ opinions is unjust and incompatible with democratic principles.
“It’s okay to disagree with such views or conduct but the idea that because you disagree with a particular view, then the people should suffer criminal consequences for it, is completely overbroad and it’s something that the democracy should not admit.”
“If you disagree with LGBTQ rights because of your religion, that is fair enough, you should have the right as a religious person to say I disagree with it. I will protect your rights too to say that,” he said.
Dr. Nyarko underscored the difference between moral disapproval of an action and imposing criminal penalties for that action.
He highlighted that while society may morally disapprove of numerous activities, it doesn’t necessarily warrant criminalization of those actions.
“People might disapprove of smoking or drinking alcohol but to the extent that, you will say that, because I have a moral disagreement to that particular conduct, then the person should be criminally liable, it’s wrong“he said.
On Thursday, February 8, Parliament passed a law imposing a three-to-five-year prison sentence for those who intentionally promote or financially support LGBTQ activities. Additionally, individuals caught engaging in such activities themselves will face sentences ranging from a minimum of 6 months to a maximum of 3 years.
The advancement of the bill had been at a standstill for months, provoking frustration among its supporters. They accused certain Members of Parliament of conspiring with pro-LGBT advocates to obstruct its passage.
During a passionate press conference, Sam George, the leading advocate for the anti-LGBT bill, stated:”Those who have gone and gotten influenced by persons who have an interest in the LGBTQ should return whatever influence they have collected because we will fight, and the next time we address the media, I will mention names.”