Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has strongly reiterated his opposition to LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, emphasizing that the Islamic faith and other religions in the country are against such practices.
As a devout Muslim, Dr. Bawumia made it clear that he does not support or condone LGBTQ practices.
His statements come in response to calls from various quarters, particularly within certain Muslim communities, for him to clarify his position on the issue, especially as President Akufo-Addo has yet to sign a bill into law regarding this matter.
Speaking at the Kumasi Central Mosque in the Ashanti Region during the Eidul-Fitr prayers, Dr. Bawumia emphasized his firm stance against LGBTQ activities, stating that such practices would not be tolerated under his leadership.
“First of all, it is important to note that our cultural and societal norms and values as Ghanaians frown on the practice of homosexuality,” Dr. Bawumia said.
“Furthermore, as a Muslim, my view on this matter aligns with the position of my religious faith. The Holy Quran is replete with verses frowning on LGBTQ acts, including same-sex marriages. My faith is therefore very strictly against the practice of homosexuality, no “ifs” or “buts”. No shades of grey.”
“Therefore, I personally cannot support that which my religion, and indeed, all the major religions in Ghana clearly and unequivocably forbid. All the major religious traditions in Ghana (Christianity and Islam) are opposed to this practice and I stand opposed to it now and I will stand opposed to it as President, Insha Allah.”
In February of this year, Parliament passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. This bill seeks to impose a minimum jail term of three years and a maximum of five years on individuals who engage in and promote homosexual activities in the country.
However, the bill has not yet been signed into law by President Akufo-Addo, as it is currently facing a challenge at the Supreme Court.