Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo-Prampram, Sam Nartey George, has responded to criticisms from notable figures, including Prof Takyiwaa Manuh and Prof Audrey Gadzekpo, regarding the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill (anti-gay bill) currently awaiting presidential assent in Ghana.
In an interview on Adom FM, on Thursday, February 29, 2024, Sam George, one of the sponsors of the bill, expressed bewilderment at the opposition to the legislation. He alleged that critics of the anti-gay bill were motivated by financial incentives from LGBTQ+ groups.
George argued that opponents of the bill claim there are already existing laws addressing LGBT+ activities, yet they advocate for its rejection. He questioned why they hadn’t challenged these laws in court if they found them problematic.
He asserted, “Prof Audrey Gadzekpo, Takyiwaa Manuh, CDD, all of them, they are doing this because of money. They are taking money to do this. I’m putting it on record that they are all being funded by pro-LGBTQ groups.”
The Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, passed by the Ghanaian Parliament on February 28, 2024, criminalizes LGBT+ activities and their promotion, advocacy, and funding. It awaits presidential assent to become law.
However, critics like Prof Takyiwaa Manuh and Prof Audrey Gadzekpo argue against the bill’s passage, citing existing laws and constitutional rights. Prof Manuh emphasized that the Constitution should not discriminate based on identity, while Prof Gadzekpo accused Sam George of pursuing political gains through the bill.
The debate surrounding the anti-gay bill underscores broader discussions on human rights, constitutional law, and political motives in Ghana. As the bill awaits presidential action, tensions between supporters and opponents continue to escalate.