The Judicial Service of Ghana has granted media outlets full access to court proceedings concerning the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2024, commonly known as the anti-gay Bill.
This decision, confirmed in a communiqué issued on Tuesday, May 28, permits both radio and television media to cover all court proceedings related to the bill. The move comes in response to widespread public interest in the legislation, which has sparked significant nationwide debate.
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.
Four separate lawsuits are currently challenging the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2024.
Amanda Odoi and Richard Dela Sky have filed cases directly with the Supreme Court, questioning the bill’s passage. In addition, Paul Boama-Sefa and Prince Obiri-Korang have brought separate challenges to the High Court.
President Akufo-Addo has refrained from signing the bill into law until these outstanding cases are resolved. However, this position has been condemned by the minority in parliament, as well as other groups and individuals.
