A lecturer at the Central University, Dr. Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah, has offered president Akufo-Addo a pen to fast track the implementation of the anti-gay bill passed by parliament.
On Wednesday, February, 28 2024, parliament approved an On Wednesday, February 28, 2024, Parliament approved an amendment to the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, introducing penalties, including up to six months of custodial sentence for those found guilty of aiding, facilitating, encouraging, or promoting LGBTQ activities.
During a discussion on Peace FM, Dr. Otchere-Ankrah expressed his support for the bill and commended Parliament for endorsing it.
He raised concerns about perceived attempts by external influences, particularly from Western nations, to impose certain lifestyles on Africans due to the aid provided to deprived countries.
“Being impoverished as a nation shouldn’t warrant external imposition of their way of life simply because we seek assistance. This is something we shouldn’t tolerate. Therefore, President Akufo-Addo, I’ll have a pen ready at the Jubilee Gate in case you need one. Please endorse the anti-gay bill promptly upon receipt,” he added.
Dr. Otchere-Ankrah emphasized that President Akufo-Addo should not hesitate to sign the bill once it reaches his desk, suggesting that it is a matter of national sovereignty and cultural values.
However, during a discussion on Peace FM expressed his stance on the bill and applauded parliament for endorsing the bill.
According to him, the Whites are imposing certain lifestyles on Africans as a result of help they offer to deprived countries.
He added that Akufo-Addo does not need a second thought in signing the bill and must assent to it once he receives it.
Meanwhile, president Akufo-Addo has rejected three bills passed by the House last year, citing their status as private members’ bills and their impact on the Consolidated Fund.
Minority Leader Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has communicated Parliament’s readiness to override President Akufo-Addo’s potential veto of the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill.Dr Ato Forson emphasized Parliament’s dedication to fulfilling its duties regardless of any unconstitutional actions taken by President Akufo-Addo.