A prominent figure within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Gabby Otchere-Darko, has voiced his concerns regarding the recent approval of Ghana’s anti-LGBTQ+ bill by the parliament.
He acknowledged that while the bill reflects the democratic will of the people as expressed by parliamentarians, it also creates an environment where potential political repercussions lead to a culture of silence among MPs who might have opposed the bill.
“Values should not be premised on hypocrisy. That is, I suspect, ungodly. The biggest threat to family values in our society is caused by side chicks and side dudes. They break homes and family values cannot survive in broken homes. But, our MPs don’t care. Do they?” he questioned.
In a series of tweets, Otchere-Darko emphasized that the passage of the bill comes with consequences and encouraged fair reporting on the pros and cons of imposing stricter penalties against the LGBTQ+ community.
He urged those who believe the law is constitutionally flawed to challenge it through appropriate legal channels, highlighting the strength of Ghana’s democratic institutions.
While acknowledging Ghana’s cultural norms, Otchere-Darko suggested that there is room to balance traditional family values with tolerance and diversity.
He questioned the prioritization of certain values over others, emphasizing the need for consistency in upholding family values.
The bill aims to safeguard what it defines as proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian Family Values by prohibiting and criminalizing various LGBTQ+ activities. It outlines penalties for individuals engaged in such acts, including imprisonment, and awaits presidential assent to become law.
Otchere-Darko’s commentary adds to the ongoing discourse surrounding the bill, emphasizing the importance of respecting democratic processes while encouraging dialogue on the implications of legislative decisions.
“Ghana’s parliament, in which is vested the sovereign will of the people, has democratically passed a harsher anti-LGBTQ Bill. Yes, democratically!
“In fact, the threat of being unseated for standing for the rights of gays, etc, certainly created its own culture of silence in the House! But, it is the decision of parliament and one which enjoys huge popular support in the country.
“The world must understand that. But Ghanaians must also understand that it comes with consequences. Choices have consequences. We expect the media and the politicians to be fair to the people by letting them know the pros and cons of this decision to impose stiffer penalties against gays, etc,” he said.
“We also expect those who believe the bill is constitutionally wrong to do what is right and go to court. That is democracy! Our institutions of democracy are still strong and alive. Let’s have faith in our democracy.
“Let’s respect the choices we make and their consequences and believe in the process. Ghana remains a sovereign state, with cultural norms that cannot be wished away but must be respected,” he added.