The Member of Parliament (MP) representing South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has responded to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s recent comments regarding homosexual activities in Ghana.
In a statement released on Thursday, April 11, 2024, Dafeamekpor acknowledged Dr. Bawumia’s disapproval of LGBT+ activities and commended him for it.
However, he issued a challenge to Dr. Bawumia, urging him to enact the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill (commonly known as the anti-gay bill) into law during his interim presidency.
Dafeamekpor emphasized that this action could only take place when Dr. Bawumia assumes the role of Head of State during President Akufo-Addo’s absence from the country.
“In this video, Alhaji Dr. Mahmoud Bawumia, our Veep, is heard and seen saying that, by our cultural ethos and his Muslim beliefs, he is against LGBTQ+. Fantastic.
“I expect our Veep to sign the bill into law when next the Prez travels and he acts as the Head of State. That’s all,” he said.
Dr. Bawumia’s stance on the issue was articulated during his address at the Eid-ul-Fitr prayers in Kumasi on Thursday, where he vehemently opposed homosexuality, aligning his views with Islamic principles and Ghanaian societal norms.
“I will like to take this opportunity to personally comment on the raging issue of LGBTQ in Ghana. First of all, it is important to note that our cultural and societal norms and values as Ghanaians frown on the practice of homosexuality.
“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, with no ‘ifs’ or ‘buts.’ No shades of grey.”
“I personally cannot support that which my religion, and indeed, all the major religions in Ghana, clearly and unequivocally 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,” he added.