The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill has been reintroduced to Parliament for consideration, according to Assin South MP, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour.
This legislation aims to outlaw LGBTQ+ activities while criminalizing their advocacy, promotion, and funding. It was initially approved by the 8th Parliament but did not receive presidential assent under former President Nana Akufo-Addo.
In an interview with Citi FM on Thursday, February 27, Mr. Ntim Fordjour urged President John Dramani Mahama to endorse the bill once it is passed by the current Parliament.
“Myself, Sam George, Hon Bedzrah, Hon Alhassan Tampuli, Hon Abdul Kabiru, Hon Ekow Vincent—we have reintroduced it to support its swift passage so that he can assent to it. The bill has been admitted and received, and the necessary processes will now commence,” he stated.
Expressing optimism about its approval, he added, “It is the same bill, so we do not expect any delays. Our chiefs, imams, clergymen, and the coalition that supported us previously remain firmly behind us. The Speaker is also in favour, so we anticipate a swift passage.”
Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has reiterated his firm opposition to the acceptance ofLGBTQ+ practices in Ghana, asserting that such activities are in conflict with the nation’s religious and cultural foundations.
Addressing a gathering of clergy, traditional leaders, and key stakeholders during his tour of Anyinam in the Eastern Region, Dr. Bawumia stressed that neither the Bible, the Quran, nor Ghanaian traditions endorse LGBTQ+ behaviors.
Following the commissioning of a new constituency office by Atewa East Member of Parliament Abena Osei Asare, Dr. Bawumia reassured the audience that the NPP, under his leadership, would staunchly resist any efforts to introduce LGBTQ+ ideologies into Ghanaian society, regardless of any external pressure or associated costs.
“Nananom, recently there have been some issues about the introduction of LGBTQ, which advocates for same-sex marriages; that thing will never happen in this country; we won’t allow such to occur here in Ghana.
“It is not in the Bible and Quran too, it is not also in our tradition, culture, or values so we will stand firm and resist its introduction no matter the cost, we won’t agree for it to destroy our country,” he stated.
On the issue of galamsey, Dr Bawumia responding to calls from the traditional leaders on streamlining the activities to mitigate the pollution of water bodies and destruction of forest reserves, said a licencing regime for mining will be granted locally with chiefs being key partners in the issuance of the mining licence.
“I want to bring a new regime into the small-scale mining sector. We need to formalise its licences and also introduce community mining schemes.
“With this licensing regime, it will not be centralised in Accra; we will decentralise it to the local people and the chiefs. Nananom will be a key part of granting licenses,” he added.
The National Democratic Congress’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, received an enthusiastic response during his meeting with Christian community leaders on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.
This gathering, aimed at fostering a time of prayer, worship, and fellowship with pastors and church leaders, exceeded expectations for the former president.
While addressing the attendees, Mahama spoke candidly about same-sex relationships, affirming his Christian beliefs and asserting that LGBTQ+ practices have no place in the church.
He pointed out that the current president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has not significantly contributed to addressing the issue, particularly by not signing the anti-gay bill into law.
Reassuring the clergymen, Mahama emphasized that, should he regain the presidency, there would be no tolerance for such practices in any form.
Read exactly what he said that got the entire room of religious leaders on their feet below:
“My fathers and mothers in Christ, the current legal impasse created by the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration on the Promotion of Proper Human Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Act, which was passed by Parliament, has set a dangerous precedence for our governance. The constitutional directive for action by the president are quite clear and need not have resulted in this stalemate.
“As I’ve publicly stated, I’m a proud member of the Assemblies of God Church and my faith does not support same-sex marriages or relationships (loud applause for over 20 seconds) nor does it support human-animal relationships, or does it allow people to change their gender as they wish. This is a fundamental belief that I hold and is grounded in my faith. I, therefore, assure you that the promotion of LGBTQ+++++ and all the pluses will have no place in our schools and communities under my administration,” he said, followed by the entire room of pastors standing to their feet in great and loud applause.
In a historic victory for gay rights activists, Namibia has declared laws banning same-sex acts between men unconstitutional.
Although convictions for “sodomy” and “unnatural sexual offences”—remnants of colonial rule—were infrequent, these laws perpetuated discrimination and instilled fear of arrest among gay men.
There are no existing laws in Namibia that prohibit sexual relations between women. While same-sex marriage remains illegal within the country, Namibia does recognize the unions of same-sex couples married abroad, provided one partner is not a Namibian citizen.
Following the high court’s decision in Windhoek on Friday, members of the LGBTQ group Equal Namibia shared images of celebratory embraces in the courtroom.
“Welcome to a new Namibia. A born-free Namibia,” the group said on social media.
The term “born-free” was most famously used in neighbouring South Africa to describe the first generation of children growing up in the dawn of democracy after white-minority rule ended in 1994.
‘I no longer feel like a criminal’ This court case was brought by a Namibian activist called Friedel Dausab, with backing from the British charity Human Dignity Trust.
“It won’t be a crime to love anymore,” Mr Dausab said, reacting to the verdict. “I no longer feel like a criminal on the run in my own country simply because of who I am.”
Expressing his feelings, he simply said he was “just happy”. The United Nations has also praised the ruling, describing it as a “powerful step” towards a more inclusive society that would enhance access to health services and HIV treatment.
Amnesty International, fearing backlash from the ruling, has called on the Namibian government to safeguard the safety and dignity of LGBTQ individuals.
The organization noted it had already observed instances of “alarming” and “threatening” rhetoric in the lead-up to the court case.
Namibia, which was first colonized by Germany, achieved independence from South Africa in 1990 after a long and difficult war.
In recent years, several African countrieshave repealed anti-LGBTQ laws, but South Africa remains the only nation on the continent where same-sex couples can marry and adopt children.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has reaffirmed Ghana’s opposition to LGBT+ activities, stressing that the country’s cultural and religious values do not condone such practices.
He made these remarks during a campaign tour in Dambai, where he spoke to a gathering of local chiefs and community members.
“Nananom, I want to comment on the issue of LGBTQ. For that practice, Ghana will never agree.
“Our culture doesn’t accept it, our religion doesn’t accept it. No matter what the consequences are, we are going to stand firm on our beliefs. We will never agree to such a thing. It is no, no, no!” he said.
On Wednesday, February 28, 2024, the Parliament of Ghana passed the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly known as the anti-LGBT+ bill.
This legislation, pending presidential assent, bans LGBT+ activities and criminalizes their promotion, advocacy, and funding.
Individuals found engaging in these activities could face jail terms ranging from six months to three years, while promoters and sponsors could face three to five years in prison.
The bill requires presidential approval to become law within seven days.
Amidst ongoing debates surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana, the Association of Progressive Muslims has issued a directive to Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia, urging him to advocate for the enactment of the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill into law.
The association has urged Bawumia to ensure President Akufo-Addo puts his signature on the legislation to make it a law.
They have also urged the Vice President to uphold his stance against LGBTQ+ practices in Ghana.
In a press release dated April 11, 2024, the Association commended Dr. Bawumia for publicly declaring his opposition to homosexuality.
However, they emphasized the importance of ensuring concrete actions, urging him to persuade President Akufo-Addo to sign the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill into law.
“Good news for mother Ghana and we’re so glad Alhaji Bawumia has listen to our call finally. However, we expect him to in the coming days, ensure that his boss, President Akufo-Addo signs the Anti- LGBTQ Bill for this matter to be brought to finality. Without that, we’ll assume it is the usual political antics to deceive Ghanaians, like in the case of his promise to build Cape Coast a harbour, like his claim of shifting the focus of the economic management policy from taxation to production which, turned out to be the shifting of the focus of economic management policy from production to more taxation.” the release signed by President of the Association, Umar Harris stated.
Dr. Bawumia reiterated his stance during Eid Al Fitr celebrations in Kumasi, aligning his opposition with his religious beliefs and Ghanaian cultural norms. However, the Association urged him to translate his words into tangible actions by advocating for the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill’s passage.
“It is important to note our cultural, societal and norms as well as values as Ghanaians frown on the same sex marriage. Further, as a Muslim my view on this matter aligns with the position of my religious faith. My faith is strictly against the practice of LGBTQ+, No ifs, no buts. Therefore, I personally cannot support that which my religion and indeed all major religions in Ghana as well as our societal norms and values clearly forbid. All major religious are opposed to the practice and I stand opposed to it now and I will stand opposed to it as president,” he said.
“Ghanaians have leant many bitter lessons from Dr. Bawumia and Nana Addo, and won’t fall for any of his political gymnastics again. This is the same man who inspired hope into the poor that Mobile Money will not be taxed so Ghanaians should accept it to save his government from going to the IMF, what happened in the end? Mobile money tax was introduced and yet proceeded to the IMF.
“Ghanaians expect action and not his usual rhetoric. The only way to prove his commitment on the LGBTQ is to persuade his boss, President Akufo-Addo to sign the Anti- LGBTQ Bill as soon as possible,” the release concluded.
Ghanaian politician Sam George received a standing ovation for his impassioned plea to uphold human rights amidst the growing prevalence of same-sex relationships and a wide range of sexual orientations and gender identities commonly referred to as LGBTQ+.
During his speech at the Global Transform Network Summit in Cape Town, George highlighted the increasing challenges posed by the LGBTQ+ movement, emphasising the need for concerted efforts from churches, institutions, state agencies, and leaders worldwide to combat what he described as a growing menace.
As a Member of Parliament from Ningo-PramPram, George asserted his commitment to upholding human values but acknowledged the limitations of individual efforts.
He urged leaders and influential figures to unite in preserving what he termed as “God’s creation” and to oppose same-sex relationships firmly.
“It is my hope that leaders and influential individuals worldwide will join forces to protect God’s creation and combat the LGBTQ+ menace,” George stated, calling for a collective stand against the normalization of same-sex relationships.
Watch video below:
A few weeks ago, I attended the Global Transform Network Summit in Cape Town, where I spoke about my vision of the Africa I envision and the role of the Church in my vision.
The Transform Summit is a meeting of business executives, political leaders, and titans of industry who… pic.twitter.com/dDJDRk9tAY
— Sam 'Dzata' George 🦁🇬🇭 (@samgeorgegh) April 6, 2024
A video capturing Ewe women joyously singing about their concerns regarding LGBTQ+ issues has set social media abuzz, shedding light on the ongoing controversy surrounding this topic.
The debate has taken centre stage in recent days, especially after Parliament’s approval of an anti-LGBTQ+ bill that now awaits the President’s approval.
President Akufo-Addo has hesitated on signing the bill into law, citing a court case initiated by journalist Richard Sky, who opposes the bill’s passage.
In the viral video, the Ewe women passionately express their views through song, lamenting, “Ghana is ruined, man marries man, woman marries woman, Ghana is ruined, we can’t recognize our old Ghana.”
This heartfelt expression has sparked a heated debate on social media, with some rallying behind the women’s stance while others finding it offensive.
As the nation eagerly anticipates President Akufo-Addo’s decision, the discourse on LGBTQ+ rights and legislation in Ghana continues to evolve and captivate public attention.
Watch video below:
Our Ewe Brothers should please translate this for us. I hear it's something related to the LGBTQ pic.twitter.com/SpYRQTLpH2
A video of some Ewe women joyously singing about their concerns regarding LGBTQ+ issues has gone viral, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding the topic.
The issue has dominated headlines in recent days, especially with Parliament passing an anti-LGBTQ+ bill that awaits the President’s assent.
President Akufo-Addo has hesitated on signing the bill into law, partly due to a court case initiated by journalist Richard Sky, who argues against the bill’s passage.
In the video, the Ewe women express their views passionately, singing, “Ghana is ruined, man marries man, woman marries woman, Ghana is ruined, we can’t recognize our old Ghana.”
This sentiment has ignited a fierce debate on social media, with some supporting the women’s stance while others find it offensive.
As the nation awaits a decision from President Akufo-Addo, the discourse around LGBTQ+ rights and legislation in Ghana continues to evolve.
Watch video below:
Our Ewe Brothers should please translate this for us. I hear it's something related to the LGBTQ pic.twitter.com/SpYRQTLpH2
Senior Pastor of Holy Hill Chapel, Assemblies of God, Rev. Dr. Kwadwo Boateng Bempah, has expressed concern regarding the delay in President Akufo-Addo’s assent to the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, despite its passage by Ghana’s Parliament.
During a sermon, the clergyman voiced his astonishment at the delay, questioning why the bill, which criminalizes LGBT+ activities, has not yet received presidential approval despite unanimous support from all 275 Members of Parliament.
He underscored the significance of the MPs’ unanimous vote, stating that it represents the collective stance of all Ghanaians on the issue.
Rev. Dr. Boateng Bempah posed the question “How many parliamentarians are there in Parliament? 275. Why are they there I am asking you, man of God? Are they not representing us?”.
“How come one person is waiting? Because what they are saying represents all of us…When they were voting no MP lifted his hands. Don’t sit down and tell me, pastor you can’t talk politics, this is not politics, this is our life, LGBT+ is not politics but rather it is human life,” he added.
He urged against dismissing the issue as merely political, asserting that it pertains to human life rather than politics.
The anti-LGBT+ bill, as passed by Parliament, outlaws LGBT activities and prohibits their promotion, advocacy, and funding. Offenders could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years, with sponsors and promoters subject to three to five years’ imprisonment.
President Akufo-Addo has postponed his decision on signing the bill into law, citing a constitutional challenge in the Supreme Court.
However, should the president opt against it, MPs retain the option to override his decision by a two-thirds majority vote, thereby making the bill enforceable.
Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua has suggested that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is treading cautiously regarding the law, awaiting the Supreme Court’s verdict on injunctions filed against him and Parliament.
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2024, unanimously passed by Parliament on February 28, awaits the President’s assent.
However, legal hurdles have emerged with two injunction applications lodged in the Supreme Court against the bill.
Private legal practitioner Richard Sky seeks to prevent the President from assenting to the bill, “order restraining the President of the Republic from assenting to ‘The Human and Sexual Values Bill, 2024”.
According to Sky, such action “will directly contravene the constitutional safeguards of liberties and rights of Ghanaians”.
Prof. Appiagyei-Atua stressed the need to await the court’s decision before any action is taken.
“When an application for an injunction is issued against a party to a suit, we have to wait for the court to determine whether the injunction should hold or not before any action can be taken,” adding, “so it is incumbent on the Clerk of Parliament not to take any action until the court has determined the matter.
“Whether the injunction is thrown away or upheld, if it is thrown away, then what it means is that it paves the way for the Clerk of Parliament to submit the bill to the President and the President will be compelled and obliged by the constitution as well as the rules of court to accept that”.
The bill, if enacted, imposes severe penalties of three to five years imprisonment for promoting LGBTQ+ activities, and up to three years for public identification with LGBTQ+ identities.
The legal and societal debates surrounding these issues continue to intensify in Ghana’s legal and political spheres.
A widely-shared video on social media has ignited a debate as a man strategically avoids climbing a staircase adorned with LGBTQ+ rainbow colors.
The vibrant colors, symbolizing diversity and inclusivity, are visibly smeared across the entire staircase.
In the footage, the man can be observed opting to ascend by gripping the railing instead of stepping on the rainbow-coloured stairs as he gradually reaches the top.
The video’s release has triggered a range of reactions, with some condemning the man’s actions, while others remain indifferent to the controversy surrounding the incident.
National laws criminalizing consensual same-sex relations between adults exist in a minimum of 67 countries.
These laws may specifically target certain sexual acts, and in some cases, they are general and open to interpretation.
Penalties range from fines to life imprisonment and, in extreme cases, the death penalty.
Law enforcement agencies in certain places actively pursue and prosecute individuals suspected of being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.
In other instances, while the laws are rarely enforced, they still have severe consequences for LGBTQ+ people, affecting their access to employment, health services, and police protection.
Furthermore, at least nine countries have national laws criminalizing forms of gender expression that disproportionately impact transgender and gender nonconforming individuals. For example:
Southern and Western Asia (Brunei and Oman) criminalize “posing as” or “imitating” a person of a different sex.
2.Saudi Arabia routinely arrests people based on their gender expression.
3. Malaysia penalizes “posing as” a different sex in its Sharia codes.
3. Nigeria criminalizes transgender and gender nonconforming people in its northern states under Sharia.
4. South Sudan applies such laws only to men who “dress as women.”
5. Malawi criminalizes men who wear their hair long.
6. Tonga prohibits any “male person” from presenting as a female while “soliciting for an immoral purpose.”
7. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has laws prohibiting men from “posing as” women in women-only spaces, which they have used to prosecute gay and transgender people even in mixed-gender spaces.
Additionally, 15 countries maintain unequal ages of consent, imposing a higher bar for same-sex couples than different-sex couples or for anal sex compared to vaginal sex.
This includes countries like Canada and Chile.
In 11 states of the United States, unenforceable laws prohibiting consensual same-sex conduct remain on the books despite a 2003 Supreme Court decision that found such laws unconstitutional.
However, in Ghana, the law to criminalize lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) activities and criminalizes their promotion, advocacy, and funding in the country awaits approval from President Akufo-Addo .
The Chairman of the National Peace Council, Rev. Dr. Ernest Adu-Gyamfi, clarified that the council remains neutral on Ghana’s Parliament approving the anti-LGBT+ bill, citing their role as mediators and abstaining from taking sides on contentious issues.
Speaking on TV3’s Hot Issue program, he mentioned that the council is closely monitoring the situation and will consider mediation if conflicts arise.
He emphasized,”We don’t have a position on the passage of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill because we are mediators; we don’t take sides on issues like this”.
The passage of the bill has sparked debate within Ghana, drawing attention from the international community, including concerns raised by the U.S. embassy in Accra.
Gabby Otchere-Darko, a leading member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), defended Parliament’s decision, urging those opposed to the bill to seek legal recourse if they find it unconstitutional.
“There are several issues that have come to us that people expected us to take sides on, but we realized it was important to remain neutral when they later came for conflict resolution.
“We are waiting to see how things will unfold so we know if to mediate/intervene in the event of a conflict.”
He emphasized the democratic process but acknowledged the potential consequences, urging media and politicians to inform the public about the bill’s pros and cons.
Mr Otchere-Darko highlighted the importance of respecting Ghana’s sovereign state status and cultural norms while suggesting a balance between traditional family values and values of tolerance and diversity.
“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. 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.
“I still believe, though, that we can balance our traditional family values with our traditional values of tolerance and diversity. That’s the Ghanaian way. The Ghanaian culture. The Ghanaian spirit. Our history. Our DNA. That is Ghanaian,” he expressed.
Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Joseph Whittal, expressed concerns about potential legal challenges if the bill is signed into law by the President. He advised careful handling due to the bill’s possible impact, emphasizing the need to respect Ghanaian values.
A gender activist and research fellow at the Centre for Gender Research, Advocacy, and Documentation (CEGRAD), Dr. Amanda Odoi, has cautioned that the enactment of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly referred to as the anti-gay bill, could intensify brain drain in the country.
The bill, which outlaws LGBTQ activities, along with their promotion, advocacy, and funding, received parliamentary approval on Wednesday, February 28, 2024.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Citi FM and Citi TV, Dr. Odoi expressed her concerns, stating that the bill’s passage exposes individuals to potential attacks, leading to skilled labor leaving Ghana due to a perceived lack of safety.
Dr. Odoi highlighted that since discussions surrounding the bill intensified, individuals have faced attacks for displaying even the slightest femininity.
“One reason why we make the argument of the bill having a potential of worsening brain drain is the fact that it sets people up for attacks and no one will want to live in an environment that is hostile.”
“The argument being made is that there are provisions in the bill to protect people from being harassed and abused but we are also aware that since discussions on the subject heightened, we have seen numerous attacks, even on suspected persons.
“Right now, if you are on social media and you see people that are doing skits or exhibit any signs of femininity, they are attacked and so people that feel unsafe will leave and there is enough evidence from other countries to show that in such instances, people migrated,” Dr Odoi told Selorm Adonoo.
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.
Two members of Ghana’s LGBTQ+ community, speaking in disguise, unveiled a disturbing tale of relentless abuse inflicted by an anti-LGBTQ+ faction in the Ablekuma region.
Detailing a series of beatings, kidnappings, and extortion, the victims strongly condemned the recently proposed LGBTQ+ bill.
“Some group of antiLGBTQ+ members disguise themselves on social media specifically facebook who lure gays to an unknown area and subject them to abuse, I was caught up by this man ho refused to let me go until I released some money, I had no choice than to call my grandma who had to send me money before they released me” both individuals gave a similar account.
They argue that the legislation not only exacerbates the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community but also violates their fundamental human rights.
Expressing their hopes for the bill’s fate, both individuals vehemently criticised Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam George, accusing him of harbouring deep-seated animosity towards the LGBTQ+ community.
“Why Sam George hates us so much, I don’t know what we have done to offend him; that man despises us,” passionately stated one of the interviewees.
Amidst their ordeal, the LGBTQ+ community members expressed optimism that President Nana Akufo-Addo would not endorse the bill, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the rights and dignity of their community in the face of adversity.
As Ghana grapples with the complex issues surrounding LGBTQ+ rights, these firsthand accounts underscore the urgent need for a more inclusive and compassionate dialogue to foster understanding and unity within the nation.
Watch video below:
"Why Does Sam George Hate Us So Much?" – An Interview with Ghana's LGBTQI+ Community
Two members of the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana, a gay man and a bisexual, revealed harrowing experiences of relentless abuse and violence perpetrated by a group of anti-LGBTQ+ individuals in the Ablekuma area.
The victims, who concealed their identities to protect themselves, disclosed a pattern of beatings, kidnappings, and extortion they endured at the hands of this hostile group.
Despite facing such adversity, the individuals voiced their concerns about the recently proposed LGBTQ+ bill, arguing that it further disadvantages the LGBTQ+ community and violates their fundamental human rights.
Expressing their sentiments on the controversial bill, both interviewees strongly criticized Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam George, for his role in spearheading the legislation.
They asserted that George’s involvement reflects a deep-seated animosity towards the LGBTQ+ community.
“I don’t know why Sam George hates us so much, I don’t know what we have done to offend him; that man hates us so much, I don’t know why,” one of the interviewees passionately exclaimed.
They are hopeful that President Nana Akufo-Addo will not approve the bill.
As Ghana grapples with the complexities surrounding LGBTQ+ rights, these firsthand accounts shed light on the urgent need for a more inclusive dialogue, free from discrimination and violence, to foster understanding and respect within the nation’s diverse communities.
Watch video below:
"Why Does Sam George Hate Us So Much?" – An Interview with Ghana's LGBTQI+ Community
Ghana’s parliament recently passed the “Human Sexual Rights and Family Values’ ‘ legislation, ushering in stricter penalties against LGBTQ+ individuals and activities.
The controversial bill has now triggered worries about its potential impact on popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Showmax, and Amazon Prime, which have gained significant traction in Ghana.
One of the focal points of concern revolves around whether the bill’s provisions criminalising the “promotion” of LGBTQ+ rights could restrict these platforms from offering content featuring same-sex relationships to Ghanaian audiences.
Section 3(2)(i) of the bill places a mandate on the media industry to “promote and protect Ghanaian family values,” raising questions about the extent to which international streaming services may fall under its jurisdiction.
While the bill grants the National Media Commission (NMC) the authority to regulate local television content, uncertainty remains regarding its reach and enforceability on global platforms like DStv, Amazon Prime, and Netflix.
Experts speculate that even if restrictions are imposed, individuals might turn to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access the content, potentially making effective regulation of private viewing habits challenging.
The bill’s potential impact on popular LGBTQ+ themed shows is also under scrutiny, with concerns raised about shows like “Heartstopper,” “Sense8,” “Sex Education,” and “Schitt’s Creek.”
These shows, known for their diverse and inclusive representation, could face limitations if the bill is interpreted to restrict such content.
Despite the government’s efforts to suppress public displays of LGBTQ+ identities and content, doubts linger about the bill’s effectiveness in achieving its intended goals.
Critics argue that while it may impact public visibility, it is unlikely to completely restrict private access or fundamentally alter individual beliefs.
With the support of Ghanaian Christian and Muslim leaders, the bill now awaits President Nana Akufo-Addo’s signature.
While the President’s stance on the matter remains publicly unknown, many anticipate his approval, raising concerns about potential censorship and the future of LGBTQ+ content on streaming platforms in the country.
Reverend Lawrence Tetteh has voiced his opinion on LGBTQ+ matters, referring to it as “nonsense” asserting that it cannot be embraced in certain parts of the world.
Speaking on GTV, the renowned clergyman, known for his candid expressions, particularly highlighted that LGBTQ+ issues would face strong opposition in countries like Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.
Addressing the controversial topic, Rev. Tetteh questioned whether the introduction of LGBTQ+ initiatives is justified solely based on poverty considerations.
He strongly emphasized that cultural, religious, and traditional values in various societies, including Ghana, do not align with the acceptance of homosexuality.
“This is nonsense cannot be taken to Kuwait, cannot be taken to Saudi Arabia. It cannot be taken to certain parts of the world. Does it mean that because of poverty any junk should be placed on us? Homosexuality, our cultural value doesn’t accept it, our religious values doesn’t accept it and traditional norms do not accept it,” he added.
On Wednesday, February, 28 2024, parliament approved an On Wednesday, February 28, 2024, Parliament approved an amendment to the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, introducing penalties, including up to six months of custodial sentence for those found guilty of aiding, facilitating, encouraging, or promoting LGBTQ activities.
Meanwhile, president Akufo-Addo is yet to assent to the anti-gay bill passed by parliament.
President Akufo-Addo has rejected three bills passed by the House last year, citing their status as private members’ bills and their impact on the Consolidated Fund.
Minority Leader Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has communicated Parliament’s readiness to override President Akufo-Addo’s potential veto of the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill.
Dr Ato Forson emphasized Parliament’s dedication to fulfilling its duties regardless of any unconstitutional actions taken by President Akufo-Addo.
Referring to LGBTQ as nonsense, Rev Lawrence Tetteh states that it cannot be taken to certain parts of the world. pic.twitter.com/kRAmbZBijx
Social media users have responded to a recent post on X platform by Ghanaian musician and LGBTQ+ advocate, Sister Derby.
In her post, Sister Derby dismissed the significance of Parliament’s recent passage of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, sarcastically questioning its impact on the country’s pressing issues.
She humorously listed concerns such as road infrastructure, healthcare, education, clean water accessibility, environmental problems, unemployment, and social challenges, suggesting the bill wouldn’t magically solve them.
“The passage of the bill will fix the roads, build hospitals and schools, ensure that there’s potable water in every community, clean all the polluted rivers, stop Galamsey, provide jobs for the youth, solve the plastic pollution menace, take the kids off the streets and also solve light off issue lmao,” she wrote.
the passage of the bill will fix the roads, build hospitals and schools, ensure that there’s potable water in every community, clean all the polluted rivers, stop Galamsey, provide jobs for the youth, solve the plastic pollution menace, take the kids off the streets and also… https://t.co/e7FCG0gvLx
However, netizens have fired back, challenging the utility of her post and questioning what Ghana would gain if the bill wasn’t passed.
“Lets say the bill wasn’t passed and ghana accepted lgbtq, then from your tweet it means lgbtq or trumu would automatically bring fixed roads, good hospitals, schools, portable water, clean rivers and also take kids off the streets and a stable power supply. Go trumu trumu!!,” a user wrote.
Lets say the bill wasn’t passed and ghana accepted lgbtq, then from your tweet it means lgbtq or trumu would automatically bring fixed roads, good hospitals, schools, portable water, clean rivers and also take kids off the streets and a stable power supply. Go trumu trumu!!🫶🔥 https://t.co/LrEYiIEAKS
The Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, also known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, secured passage in Parliament after three years.
Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin attempted amendments during the second consideration stage, citing human rights concerns, but the Minority’s rejection led to the bill advancing to the third consideration stage.
Speaker Alban Bagbin conducted a voice vote, with the ayes prevailing. The bill now awaits President Akufo-Addo‘s assent to become law.
The controversial legislation seeks to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, proposing strict penalties, including imprisonment. It also aims to prohibit the promotion of LGBTQ+ rights, organizations, and events in the country.
A Twitter user shared concerns about personal safety in Ghana following the recent passage of the LGBTQ+ bill.
Seeking assistance to acquire a visa to the USA, the user expressed fear and alleged threats, prompting a call for support through direct messages.
“ I am LGBTQ+ in Ghana and I don’t feel safe here. Can you help me acquire a visa to the USA. They want to kill me, Kindly reach out to me in my DM.”
Parliament has passed the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill also known as the anti-LGBTQ bill after three years following its introduction.
During Wednesday’s Parliamentary session Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin sought to make amendments to the bill during the second consideration stage citing human right infringement.
However, the Minority rejected his request, prompting the Speaker to push for the third consideration stage.
Speaker Alban Bagbin put the bill to a voice vote and the ayes had it.
As it stands now, Parliament has tabled the bill to the President’s desk for President Akufo-Addo to assent to the bill to become law.
The Anti-LGBTQ+ bill aims to criminalise LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana. It proposes strict penalties, including imprisonment, for individuals engaged in activities related to homosexuality and LGBTQ+ advocacy.
Additionally, the bill seeks to prohibit the promotion of LGBTQ+ rights, organisations, and events in Ghana.
Prior to its passage, there had been several amendments to the bill.
After deliberation, Parliament decided that the minimum custodial sentence has been set at three years, with a maximum of five years for promoters and sympathisers.
Additionally, individuals caught directly engaging in these activities will face a minimum sentence of six months, extendable to a maximum of three years.
Ghana is among many African countries that are working to rid LGBTQ activities in the society.
Uganda enacted one of the world’s harshest anti-gay laws in May, which calls for the death penalty for certain same-sex acts.
Following this, the country faced sanctions from international communities.
The U.S. imposed a first round of visa restrictions on Ugandan officials in response to the law in June, and the World Bank halted new lending to the country in August.
The concern now is Ghana could face similar sanctions and be blocked from receiving financial aid from countries that uphold LGBTQ rights but Parliamentarians have noted that Ghana is poised to withstand whatever pro-LGBTQ countries throw at them.
Already, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has described the passage of bill as “profoundly disturbing.”
A portion of the UN Human Rights statement read “I call for the bill not to become law. I urge the Ghanaian Government to take steps to ensure everyone can live free from violence, stigma and discrimination, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Consensual same-sex conduct should never be criminalized.”
As discussions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and legislation continue to dominate conversations in Ghana, there’s a growing recognition of the diverse array of sexual orientations and gender identities encompassed within the community.
A bill which has been passed in Parliament, pending Presidential assent, criminalises issues related to LGBTQ+ rights, sparking nationwide debate and reflection on the topic.
While many individuals may perceive LGBTQ+ solely in terms of gay and lesbian identities, the acronym has evolved to reflect a much broader spectrum of experiences and expressions.
In an extended version of the acronym, LGGBDTTTQQAAAPP+, each letter represents a distinct identity or orientation.
Here’s a breakdown of the expanded LGGBDTTTQQAAAPP+ acronym and what each letter represents:
L – Lesbian: Refers to women who are sexually attracted to other women.
G – Gay: Describes men who are sexually attracted to other men.
G – Genderqueer: Denotes individuals who do not conform to conventional gender distinctions and may identify with neither, both, or a combination of male and female genders.
B – Bisexual: Describes individuals who are sexually and/or romantically attracted to people of the same gender and people of another gender.
D – Demisexual: Refers to individuals who experience sexual attraction only after forming an emotional bond with someone.
T – Transgender: Describes individuals whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
T – Transexual: Refers to individuals who may experience sexual attraction primarily after forming an emotional bond with someone.
T – Twospirits: Indigenous term describing individuals who identify as having both masculine and feminine spirits.
I – Intersex: Describes individuals born with physical or biological sex characteristics that do not fit typical definitions of female or male.
Q – Queer: Umbrella term for sexual and gender minorities who are not heterosexual or cisgender.
Q – Questioning: Refers to individuals who are uncertain or exploring their sexual orientation or gender identity.
A – Asexual: Describes individuals who experience little to no sexual attraction to others.
A – Ally: Refers to heterosexual individuals who support and advocate for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.
A – Autosexual: Describes individuals who experience sexual attraction primarily to themselves.
P – Pansexual: Refers to individuals who are attracted to people regardless of their gender identity or biological sex.
P – Polyamorous: Describes individuals who engage in consensual relationships with multiple partners simultaneously.
+ – Represents additional identities and expressions beyond those explicitly listed.
The acronym “LGBTQ+” has undergone significant transformation over the years, reflecting the evolving understanding and recognition of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.
Originally coined as “LGBT,” the acronym has expanded to encompass a broader spectrum of identities.
In recent years, the acronym has continued to evolve, with the incorporation of the symbol “+” serving as a testament to the ongoing expansion and diversification of the LGBTQ+ community.
Here are some ways the acronym has transformed into:
– Advertisement –
LGBTIQCAPGNGFNBA: Which stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual,Transgender, Intersex, Queer/Questioning, Curious, Asexual, Pansexual, Gender-Nonconforming, Gender-Fluid, Non-Binary, and Androgynous.
LGBTQQIP2SAA: This term stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, pansexual, two-spirit, asexual, and ally.
Lesbian: A woman who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to other women.
Gay: A person, typically a man, who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to people of the same gender.
Bisexual: A person who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to people of more than one gender.
Transgender: A person whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. Transgender individuals may undergo social, medical, or legal transitions to align their gender expression with their identity.
Intersex: A person born with variations in sex characteristics that do not fit typical definitions of male or female. Intersex individuals may have biological traits such as chromosomes, gonads, or genitals that differ from societal norms.
Queer/Questioning: “Queer” is an umbrella term that encompasses diverse sexual orientations and gender identities outside of heteronormativity. “Questioning” refers to individuals who are exploring or uncertain about their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Curious: Refers to a state of questioning or exploration regarding one’s sexual orientation or gender identity. It often describes individuals who are curious about or interested in exploring non-heteronormative identities or experiences.
Asexual: A person who experiences little to no sexual attraction to others. Asexual individuals may still experience romantic or emotional attraction.
Pansexual: A person who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to people regardless of their gender identity or biological sex.
Gender-Nonconforming: Refers to individuals whose gender expression does not conform to societal expectations or stereotypes associated with their assigned sex at birth. Gender-nonconforming people may present themselves in ways that challenge traditional notions of masculinity or femininity.
Gender-Fluid: A person whose gender identity may vary over time or in different contexts. Gender-fluid individuals may feel comfortable expressing themselves across a spectrum of genders.
Non-Binary: An umbrella term for individuals whose gender identity does not exclusively align with the binary categories of male or female. Non-binary people may identify as both, neither, or a combination of genders.
Androgynous: Refers to a gender expression that blends elements of both masculinity and femininity. Androgynous individuals may present themselves in a way that challenges traditional gender norms and expectations.
Two-Spirit: A term used within some Indigenous cultures in North America to describe individuals who embody both masculine and feminine qualities or characteristics, as well as spiritual qualities.
Deputy Majority Leader in Ghana’s Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin,has proposed significant changes to the country’s criminal justice system concerning individuals found guilty of engaging in same-sex activities.
As Parliament deliberates on tightening laws surrounding same-sex relationships, Mr. Afenyo-Markin is advocating for a shift towards a more rehabilitative and socially integrative approach rather than solely punitive measures.
Representing the Effutu Constituency of the Central Region, Afenyo-Markin’s proposal centers on the adoption of plea bargaining and non-custodial punishments for offenders. He contends that this approach aligns with principles of social justice, economic pragmatism, human rights, and legislative accountability.
In a statement, Afenyo-Markin emphasized the necessity of moving beyond mere punishment towards the possibility of social reintegration, rehabilitation, and redemption for individuals involved in same-sex activities.
He argued that opting for non-custodial punishments and structured plea bargaining would result in a more humane, financially sustainable, and globally acceptable legal system consistent with international human rights standards.
The proposal comes against the backdrop of Ghana’s prison overpopulation crisis, which has raised concerns about human rights violations due to extreme overcrowding. Afenyo-Markin believes that by adopting the approach outlined in his proposal, Parliament can alleviate pressure on the criminal justice system, redirect funds to areas of urgent need, and promote a restorative approach to justice.
Afenyo-Markin’s advocacy for reform underscores the ongoing debate surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and legal frameworks in Ghana. While same-sex relationships are currently criminalized in the country, there is a growing call for a more inclusive and rights-based approach to addressing issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity.
As Parliament considers Afenyo-Markin’s proposal, it is expected to spark further dialogue and deliberation on the intersection of law, human rights, and social justice in Ghana. The outcome of these discussions could have far-reaching implications for the LGBTQ+ community and the broader landscape of justice and equality in the country.
Controversial LGBTQ+ rights activist and transgender musician, Angel Maxine, has posed a thought-provoking question to the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama.
Angel Maxine’s inquiry revolves around the principles of love and compassion within religious beliefs, particularly concerning allegations of moral transgressions and the LGBTQ+ community.
This comes in response to Mahama’s recent declaration aligning his personal faith with his opposition to LGBTQ+ activities.
Mahama stated, “I am against LGBTQ. I am a member of the Assemblies of God Church, and my faith is against it.”
However, Angel Maxine, using her platform on Instagram, has drawn attention to Mahama’s own experience in 2020 when he faced an alleged adulterous scandal, earning him the colloquial label ‘papanu.’
“You said your faith is Ghana governed by religion because that is what everybody is riding on. In case you have forgotten what your religion preaches about… Your religion preaches about love, compassion, that is why in 2020 when your adulterous scandal came out that earned you the name ‘papano’ , your religion protected you.
“Your religion showed you love even though adultery is a sin in the bible. So, if your religion can show you love, show you compassion for being an adulturous man that is a sin in the bible. Why can’t your religion show love to the LGBQT community,” Angel Maxine.
Despite the moral transgression, Maxine pointed out that Mahama was shielded and shown love within his religious community.
Maxine is recognized for her advocacy against the passage of the LGBTQ+ community Bill, which proposes the criminalization of same-sex relationships.
The anti-LGBT bill, which has been widely criticised by human rights groups and foreign governments, is currently being debated in parliament.
The Bill extends its reach to encompass relationships between a person and an animal or object, suggesting imprisonment terms ranging from 3 to 5 years.
Founder and president of the Worldwide Miracle Outreach, Rev Dr Lawrence Tetteh, has conveyed his dismay at Ghanaians opposing the current parliamentary consideration of the anti-gay bill.
During an interview, he asserted that Ghana’s cultural and moral values are incompatible with homosexuality, emphasizing that it is deemed an abomination for men to marry men.
Commending those in favor of the bill, Rev Tetteh urged politicians not to waver in their stance on the issue.
He said that the bill has united Christians, Muslims, traditional rulers, and chiefs on the matter.
“I feel very disappointed when Ghanaians like you and I will complain about the anti-gay bill. We have values in this country. We have cultural and moral values in this country. Men marry women. And so whether you are Muslim, a traditional ruler, or the church, homosexualism is an abomination.
“I applaud the people who stood with this bill, the politicians should be very careful with the way they dilly-dally, with this issue. For once, the Christians, the Muslims, the traditional rulers, and the chiefs are all together on this issue. We have moral values in this country that say that a man should not marry a man,” he explained.
He also dismissed the argument that the bill violates human rights, saying that Ghanaians have the right to reject what they do not want.
He added that he lives in the UK, where polygamy is not allowed, and that Ghanaians should also uphold their values and responsibilities.
He said that it is shameful and inhuman for some people to suggest that Ghana would lose IMF help if it passes the bill, and that he agrees with former presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and John Dramani Mahama that Ghana should not compromise its sovereignty for aid.
“Sometimes we come back to it and we say that it’s human rights. If it’s human rights, then we also have the human right to say that what we don’t want should not be imposed on us.
“In the UK, where I live in, you are not allowed to marry two wives. We should also be able to maintain that thing, that what is not right is not right. And we have a moral responsibility, we have a religious responsibility to that.
“I’ve had some people come to me and say that if we do, we would not be getting IMF help. That is very shameful. That is very inhuman.,” he said.
Citing the plight of some vulnerable people who have been abused or exploited because of poverty, Reverend Dr Lawrence Tetteh said that prostitution and homosexuality are not right or healthy and that he would not want his children to be involved in such activities.
He said that Ghanaians should be careful not to destroy the future generation by allowing LGBTQ+ activities and that everyone has a responsibility to speak the truth and to protect the family values of Ghana.
Rev Lawrence Tetteh, however, advised Ghanaians not to be violent against LGBTQ+ people, but to pray for them and show them love.
“The truth is that as much as a lot of people are trying to hide away from the dangers of LGBT, we should be very careful that we don’t destroy the generation behind us. We have a responsibility.
“When it comes to LGBTQ, there’s only one thing I keep telling people. Don’t be violent against them,” he stated.
About the bill
The anti-LGBTQ+ bill faces possible changes by a parliamentary committee before it becomes a law. Rights groups warn that the bill, if passed as it is, could lead to persecution and harassment of sexual minorities, their supporters, and their allies. They would also be forced to report their activities to the authorities.
The law would make it illegal, with up to five years in jail, to be a LGBTQ+ person, to have a same-sex relationship or sex.
It would also outlaw marrying or planning to marry someone who has changed their sex through surgery, with up to five years in jail.
The bill also deals with “gross indecency in public”. Any public display of love between people of the same sex, or people who identify as a different gender from their sex, or who have changed their sex through surgery, would also be illegal.
It would also forbid “cross-dressing”, allowing anyone who dresses in a way that does not match their biological sex to be prosecuted.
The discourse surrounding LGBTQ+ will only subside when individuals cease engaging in it; until then, it will remain a prevalent topic of conversation.
Arnold Asamoah-Baidoo, an entertainment journalist, recently joined the discussion on the December 23 episode of United Showbiz, a UTV entertainment program.
Expressing his views on LGBTQ+, he emphasized that while it is a personal choice, individuals should be mindful of the potential consequences associated with such practices.
In support of his stance, Arnold Asamoah-Baidoo referenced biblical teachings during the discussion.
“If LGBTQ+ is the path you have chosen to follow and would be practicing it in your closet, that is up to you. You face your repercussions alone. The point is, because I am a Bible-believing person, they should know the repercussions that come out of this practice are devastating.”
“…In Genesis, when the angels visited Lot, the Bible says all the men in the town rushed to Lot’s house to sleep with the angels. Lot begged to trade the angels with his daughters but they refused. In the end, God made the men blind. That is how critical the repercussions will be for these people”, he explained.
The entertainment analyst discussed how these groups are attempting to force their beliefs on unbelievers by incorporating gay themes into cartoons, TV shows, and motion pictures.
“The most disturbing thing going on is the level of cohesion and how they are trying to infiltrate it in our systems. If you have observed this, in the last couple of years, the movie series that has been released has a gay scene in it.
Even with the cartoons our kids watch, they are trying to inculcate the scene in it. It is very disturbing. Like I said, it’s a personal choice but the children should be considered in terms of the content. They should know the repercussions that come out of this practice is devastating”, he said.
The emerging threats against LGBTQ+ individuals in Ghana have prompted the United States Embassy to elevate its travel advisory to Level 2, urging travelers to “Exercise Increased Caution.” Issued on November 20, 2023, the alert specifically highlights escalated risks of crime and violence targeting members of the LGBTQ+ community in the country.
The advisory identifies areas with heightened risks, including sections of the Bono East, Bono, Savannah, Northern, North East, and Upper East regions, expressing concerns about potential civil unrest. The embassy underscores the prevalence of violent crimes like carjacking and street mugging, especially at night and in isolated locations.
Travelers are strongly advised to exercise heightened caution, particularly in urban areas, crowded markets, and during nighttime travel when criminal elements may impose blockades to restrict movement. Specific attention is drawn to areas near the northern border in the Upper East and Upper West regions due to security concerns.
The advisory recognizes potential limitations in the U.S. government’s ability to provide emergency services to its citizens in Ghana, emphasizing the local law enforcement’s potential lack of resources to respond effectively to serious crimes.
Addressing the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ travelers in Ghana, the alert references Ghanaian laws prohibiting “unlawful carnal knowledge” between individuals of the same sex, with punishments including fines and incarceration. The advisory underscores the surge in anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and violence in recent years, citing incidents of targeted assaults, rape, mob attacks, and harassment.
Travelers are encouraged to visit the embassy’s LGBTQ+ Travel Information page and review the Human Rights Report for additional details. The alert advises enrollment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for emergency alerts, a review of the Country Security Report for Ghana, and the preparation of a contingency plan for emergency situations. Additionally, travelers are recommended to follow the Department of State on social media for updates.
US ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has commended the inclusivity of Ghana and its citizens while also warning about potential prejudice, particularly directed at the LGBTQ+ community.
She noted that the nation’s strength and attractiveness as an investment hub primarily stem from its strong interfaith and inter-ethnic harmony.
Nevertheless, Ambassador Palmer emphasized that any form of bias against LGBTQ+ individuals could convey an unfavorable message to American investors overall and should be prevented.
“Ghana is a very welcoming tolerant society, lots of inter-religious, inter-ethnic harmony and that is what makes Ghana strong and stable and attractive for investment. I hope it stays that way with regards to the LGBTQ+
community.
“And again, there is money to be made, if the colour of your money is green or red, it is Ghanaian but there if there is discrimination or worse, then that will send a signal to not just LGBT investors but other American investors that Ghana is less welcoming than I am telling people that it is now. So, I hope it will stay welcoming,” she told journalists.
She was speaking on the sidelines of the US-Ghana Business Expo which took place in Accra on August 10, 2023.
“I want to send a signal that Ghana is open for business and its economic recovery has began,” she added.
She revealed that the US group that had come to Ghana was a special trade delegation, the Global Diversity and Inclusion delegation that had reps from among others:
National Black Chamber
Women-owned businesses
LGBT-owned businesses
Native American owned businesses
Washington has openly spoken in favour of the LGBTQ community and have spoken against Ghana’s anti-LGBTQ Bill which is due to be passed into law by Parliament during its next sitting.
The topic of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) has dominated public discussions in Ghana for a considerable period of time. Numerous voices and discussions have added to this significant discourse. Yet, it’s evident that the majority of Ghanaians oppose any legal recognition of homosexuality. While the minority perspective is less prominent, some notable figures in Ghana hold this view.
Here are some Ghanaian celebrities who support the LGBTQ
Wanlov The Kubolor
Ghanaian-Romanian musician and director Emmanuel Owusu Bonsu is better known by his stage name Kubulor. Kubulor demonstrated support for Ghana’s LGBTQ+ community. He promoted arguments in support of their orientation on his social media platforms.
Kubulor flaunts himself on social media while donning women’s clothing, makeup, and a rainbow flag representing the LGBTQ+ movement.
Sister Derby
Ghanaian singer and model Debora Vannessa Owusu Bonsu expressed her support for the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing the importance of embracing critics with love instead of hatred. She highlighted that people often fear what they are unfamiliar with.
Panji Anoff Panji Anoff is a Ghanaian music producer and artist manager, responsible for overseeing the careers of celebrities such as Kubulor, Yaa Poni, and Mensa, among others.
Panji asserts that identifying as gay or lesbian is not a criminal act, and thus individuals should be protected from harm in the country. He emphasizes that harboring hatred towards LGBTQ+ individuals infringes upon their basic human rights.
Shatta Wale
Charles Nii Armah Mensah Jnr., widely known as Shatta Wale, is a Ghanaian reggae-dancehall musician and entrepreneur. He also voices his support for LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana. Shatta Wale advocates for love over hatred, urging people not to judge or hate individuals based on their engagement with LGBTQ+. He emphasizes that what truly matters is the content of a person’s heart, rather than their sexual orientation.
Leila is a celebrated filmmaker who has earned awards for her work. Additionally, she is a supporter of LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana. Leila asserts that homosexuality has historical roots within African culture and should not be dismissed outright within the country.
She believes that recognizing LGBTQ+ individuals helps safeguard the youth against discrimination.
6. Lydia Forson
The outspoken actress and social activist, is not easily silenced. She has a notable history of confronting both political figures and individuals in religious leadership positions.
Identifying as a third-wave feminist, Forson aspires for equality across all genders, not just for women. Her stance encompasses supporting laws that safeguard individuals’ rights to choose their own identities.
7. Bridget Otoo
Bridget Otoo stands as perhaps the initial media personality to openly endorse the legalization of the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana.
Amidst the ongoing discourse on legalizing same-sex marriage in the country, she has emerged as a steadfast advocate for the LGBTQ+ cause, even in the face of criticism from her social media followers.
Lately, a significant portion of her Twitter posts has been dedicated to promoting and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana.
8. Juliet Ibrahim
In the Ghanaian film scene, both Ghallywood and Nollywood actress Juliet Ibrahim have voiced her backing for the legalization of same-sex marriage in Ghana.
On social media, she criticized Ghanaians who oppose the LGBTQ+ movement and went so far as to hint at exposing prominent figures in Ghana who are involved with the LGBTQ+ community.
10.Pappy Kojo
Pappy Kojo
Jason Gaisie, widely recognized as Pappy Kojo, stands as the sole musician from Takoradi who has openly expressed his endorsement for the legalization of same-sex marriage in Ghana.
11. Kwabena Kwabena
Kwabena Kwabena, another Ghanaian musician, has added his voice to those supporting the legalization of same-sex marriage in Ghana.
His focal point has been the disapproval he holds towards certain Ghanaians, particularly religious leaders, who propagate hatred towards the LGBTQ+ community within the country.
12. Efia Odo
The outspoken Ghanaian socialite explains that gays, just as any other living thing on earth, are created by God.
Ghanaian student studying in the United States of America, Derrick Boadi Sakyi, has his scholarship withdrawn due to his involvement in hateful attacks against LGBT Ghanaians on Twitter.
The attacks came to light when a Ghanaian LGBT activist, known as Papa Kojo, exposed them after receiving a threat from Sakyi.
Papa Kojo’s investigation revealed that Sakyi had recently commenced a PhD program in Biological Science at Ohio University in the United States on a scholarship. However, it was later discovered that the scholarship was intended for LGBTQIA+ community members, applicants from the Global South, first-generation students, and people with disabilities.
This year, I need a lot more queer documenting that isn’t on our grief, losses, or homophobes who don’t matter. I want to document queer joy, queer marriage, queer pride, queer people traveling around the world. I want to hear queer elders and trans and intersex queer stories.
Upon realizing this contradiction, Papa Kojo informed the university about the attack he received from Sakyi, providing evidence of other abusive and hateful posts made by Sakyi against the LGBT community in Ghana. Subsequently, the scholarship was withdrawn as a consequence of his actions.
Stay away from progressive funding and scholarships if you’re a homophobe. Apply to Iran, Saudi Arabia or Afghanistan since you love oppression so bad. https://t.co/z8dmvhqhrUpic.twitter.com/8UhpQmXVZC
— awo dufie fofie (she/ɔno) (@awo_dufie) July 25, 2023
He wrote on Twitter: “One guy sent me death threats and I just checked his profile. He’s been inciting hate for years…in one of his most recent tweet, he confessed setting up gay men to be beaten and blackmailed and said if Ama allows him to correctively rape her, he’ll get her to the bar.
“I’ve found his name and details on LinkedIn and he moved to the US two weeks ago to start a PhD in Ohio. I want everyone to hold on tight because this TL is about to get bloody messy af in the coming days. 😂,”
In response to his letter to the university, he learned that Sakyi’s scholarship had been put on hold while a review was conducted.
“Stay away from progressive funding and scholarships if you’re a homophobe. Apply to Iran, Saudi Arabia or Afghanistan since you love oppression so bad,” Papa Kojo captioned his new post.
An inquest heard that a teacher committed suicide after suffering horrifying homophobic stalker abuse.
In the weeks leading up to his death on June 6, 2021, Darren Capers repeatedly threatened and harassed Simon Cremen, 38.
The official cause of death was listed as suicide by Coroner Paul Smith at an inquest conducted at Grimsby Town Hall on Friday, according to GrimsbyLive.
Capers, 39, confessed stalking Simon beginning in May 2021 and received a four-year prison term in December of last year.
A video of Capers, a defendant from Grimsby, was played at Hull Crown Court during testimony about his threats to bomb Simon’s home and break his windows.
“You were quite literally terrorising him, and, understandably, your actions had a profound effect upon him,” Judge John Thackray KC said to Capers.
In the last few weeks and days of his life, “You caused distress and misery to your victim.”
Sandra, Simon’s mother, stated during the inquest that she thought her son might have lived if the abuse campaign had not occurred.
In 2019, Simon began working as a maths teacher at Grimsby’s John Whitgift Academy after quitting his position as a banker with Halifax, where he had collected thousands of dollars for LGBTQ+ organisations.
“He loved his job,” Sandra told GrimsbyLive, “and any student would go to Simon for help if they had any problems.”
During the pandemic, he battled with isolation, and when he returned to work, Capers started harassing him.
Simon was overcome by desperation, Mr. Smith stated in his verdict for the inquiry.
“I have no doubt that this vile, homophobic abuse and behaviour, which appeared to be intensifying, gave him concerns.”
He expressed gratitude to Simon’s friends and family for coming and said, “I’ve no doubt Simon will live long in your thoughts and he will be missed by you all.”
A Ghanaian student majoring in biological science at a university in the US runs the risk of losing his PhD funding due to a tweet shared about anti-Lesbians, Gays, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+).
Derrick Boadi Sakyi’s problems began when one of his tweets was reported on Twitter on June 21.
A pro-gay rights activist in Ghana who identifies as “intersex,” Papa Kojo Ampofo, filed a petition with the school where Sakyi was enrolled.
“One guy sent me death threats and I just checked his profile. He’s been inciting hate for years…in one of his most recent tweet, he confessed setting up gay men to be beaten and blackmailed and said if Ama allows him to correctively rape her, he’ll get get her to the bar.
“I’ve found his name and details on LinkedIn and he moved to the US two weeks ago to start a PhD in Ohio. I want everyone to hold on tight because this TL is about to get bloody messy af in the coming days,” Ampofo tweeted on July 21.
As per the Ohio-based institution’s statement, they have decided to suspend the Fellowship and Funding of an individual, Sakyi, until the investigation is completed. The matter is currently under the University’s jurisdiction.
The university further revealed that Sakyi himself admitted to posting the tweets and sending anti-LGBTQ messages to activists via their inbox. Additionally, he has taken down the account associated with these actions.
Ampofo, in response to Sakyi’s actions, shared screenshots of a petition he submitted to the school and the subsequent response. The response confirmed that Sakyi’s scholarship is at risk due to his expressed views.
The institution clarified that the scholarship Sakyi received comes with an expectation that fellows will respect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community and other minority groups. As a result of his conduct, which contravened their guidelines, his scholarship is in jeopardy.
“The goal of our fellowship and Funding is to provide access for minority groups including the LGBTQIA+ community, Applicants from the Global South, first generation students and people with disability.
“Our decision to grant Fellowship and Funding to Mr Derrick Boadi Sakyi to fund his PhD in Biological Science went through stringent selection and interview process. His Fellowship and Funding was given on the basis that he remains a good representative of our school and advocate or an Inclusive and Diverse school and work environment,” the school added.
Former Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central under the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Inusah Fuseini, has voiced concerns about LGBTQ+ rights activism in Ghana, comparing it to a new form of colonialism.
While he advocates for abolishing the death penalty, he believes that accepting the LGBTQ+ community’s rights would undermine African culture.
He emphasizes the importance of embracing diverse choices but warns against endorsing what he sees as a potential form of colonial influence.
“The fact that I’m advocating for life imprisonment and not death sentence might, to some extent, be consistent with the way Africans have always lived together. LGBTQ+ is an attack on African traditions. Everybody or every people have the right to their own culture. It is the culture that defines you. You are who you are by reason of where you are from, and who I am by reason of where I am from. Diversity is what makes us human. Our differences should not divide us; our difference, in the sight of Allah, should let us know each other.
“As Africans, we have a culture; we have a tradition. It is, if you want, another form of colonialism or imperialism to try to impose on us a culture that is at variance with our traditional culture. And that is why LGBTQ is facing stiff opposition,” he stated.
He asserts that decisions regarding engaging in such practices should remain private. However, Inusah Fuseini believes that if such acts are publicized, they should be addressed through the law.
The anti-gay bill presented to Parliament has been adopted, aiming to make all activities associated with the LGBTQ+ community illegal in Ghana. The bill proposes punitive measures for suspects involved in such activities.
As Kenya prepares to introduce anti-LGBT legislation in parliament, advocacy groups in the United States are urging a pause in trade negotiations between the two nations.
The proposed bill, spearheaded by MP George Peter Kaluma from Raila Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement, aims to further criminalize same-sex acts. The penalties outlined in the bill include a suggested minimum sentence of ten years in prison and even the death penalty for cases of “aggravated homosexuality,” which encompasses engaging in homosexual acts with a minor or disabled person and transmitting a terminal disease through sexual means.
Additionally, the proposed Family Protection Act seeks to impose a complete ban on any activities that promote homosexuality, such as displaying LGBTQ flags or symbols.
It is important to note that Kenya already criminalizes same-sex acts with penalties of up to 14 years of imprisonment.
The campaign led by Kaluma has deeply troubled advocacy groups, including coalitions in the United States, who are now urging President Biden to suspend trade talks in response to the proposed legislation.
U.S. concern
The coalition, comprising a number of LGBTQI+, labor, trade, HIV, and human rights groups, on Monday sent a letter to the US Trade Representative Katherine Tai, timed to coincide with her visit to Kenya for the launch of the United States-Kenya Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP).
In their letter, the groups called on Ambassador Tai to “pause STIP negotiation until President Ruto commits to vetoing this bill”.
Members of US Congress also wrote to the ambassador in June to express their concern, saying “The United States must make clear to both Kenya and other countries considering similar legislation that we will not stand idly by as they move to criminalize or further criminalize people for being LGBTQI+.”
Growing anti-LGBTQ sentiment
The proposed bill in Kenya comes following Uganda’s new Anti-Homosexuality Bill passed into law in May by President Yoweri Museveni. Considered one of the world’s harshest anti-LGBTQ laws, it fully criminalises same-sex acts, with possible penalties of life imprisonment or death penalty.
In Ghana, lawmakers are in the process of amending the country’s own anti-LGBTQ legislation with propositions of a three-year prison sentence for anyone who identifies as LGBTQ and a 10-year sentence for anyone who promotes homosexuality.
In Kenya, the Nairobi-based National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission have reported a surge in number of attacks against the community. Calls it has received reporting abuse, including assaults, threats and discrimination, rose from 78 in January to 117 in February and 367 in March, the commission said.
The son of well-known Ghanaian broadcaster Kwasi Kyei-Darkwah, also known as KKD, Kwaku Darkwah Kyei-Darkwah, led a parade that recently took place in England.
The LGBTQ+ community organised the parade, which was one of many waves of protests held by the trans and intersex community throughout Europe in their fight for greater rights and recognition.
Wearing an unbuttoned long-sleeved shirt over a bra with jeans trousers and a handbag across his chest, and sporting a curly afro wig, the fashion brand’s sales executive and stylist made clarion calls as the group marched on.
“I just want to say to everybody new that is walking by, whether you are in support or pathetic, we are not only walking so that we can stick it to everyone. We are walking because we know we are fine. We are walking because we know we are divine. We are walking because we have rights. We are walking because we know that we are building, and we are not going to stop,” he shouted into a handheld microphone.
He also emphasized that the trans fight will continue unabated.
“What you are seeing today is going to continue happening. We will continue walking, we will continue marching, we will continue fighting. We will be on your airwaves, we will be on your TV screens. We are not going anywhere,” he emphasized in a viral video from the march.
Darkwah Kyei-Darkwah came out as gay in November 2017 in a publication by the digital magazine intomore.com.
Noting the difficulty in coming out as gay, the son of the celebrated Ghanaian broadcaster said he had gone past that stage and felt no need to conform to anyone’s standards in terms of his sexuality.
“The moment I realized I was gay happened in primary school. Someone called me gay as an insult, and I responded with ‘so what?’ I was totally fine with it, but others weren’t, and that was when the discomfort and shame with my sexuality started,” he told intomore.com.
He was featured on the website alongside other gay models with African backgrounds, discussing the issues they face as queer people of color.
“Living under my parents’ roof, I was constantly hiding. I’d get home from school and be incredibly quiet, helpful, and obedient. I stayed in my room most of the time. I was playing the role of the ‘ideal son’ so I could just skate by unnoticed. It wasn’t until I was no longer living at home that I started to realize I wasn’t anyone or anything I’d known so far in my life,” he said.
“I went through a lot of ups and downs, trying out new ways of dressing, trying out new friendship groups, and reinventing myself over and over again. I realized I did this because I was still trying to fit in a box – the stylish black guy, the cool and macho black guy, the femme, flamboyant, and fun black guy. None worked because there is a lot more to me (and any person, for that matter) than a stereotype. I am now very comfortable with my sexuality because I don’t feel I need to conform to any one image,” he added.
His father, after his son had come out, issued a message of support via Facebook.
In his long statement of support, which was later deleted from his page, KKD congratulated his son for coming out and described him as brave and courageous.
The National House of Chiefs has voiced their discontent regarding the conduct of individuals identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) within the nation.
As per their statement, the National House of Chiefs considers such activities as unacceptable and incompatible with the traditional norms and values of Ghanaian culture.
President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahohoo Yaw Gyebi who spoke on behalf of the chiefs called on members of parliament to fiercely resist any attempt to stop them from passing the LGBTQ+ bill.
Addressing the chiefs during their Annual General Meeting, Ogyeahohoo Yaw Gyebi said Ghanaian customs and traditions frown on LGBTQ+ activities and deem it as an abomination.
“Nananom, LGBTQ+ is evil, we the Chiefs of Ghana have been inundated by calls from our people to make an open declaration concerning the threat by LGBTQ. We the chiefs, as the custodians of culture, the customs and traditions of our people, wish to state categorically that our traditions and customs recognise that our creator, God or Allah and called variously by different religions, created man and woman to occupy the earth and procreate.
“There is, therefore, only male and female gender and no other agenda. The Christians Holy Book, the Bible, Muslims, Quran, and our traditions and customs affirm these facts. It is, therefore, an abomination and against all our cultural values as Ghanaians to allow others to import into our country anything contrary to the above values that we have cherished over the centuries,” he said.
The Chiefs said they will not allow any group to propagate LGBTQ+ in any other form in Ghana.
Ogyeahohoo Yaw Gyebi called on the police and other relevant institutions not to allow the practice of LGBTQ in the country.
“We are not calling only on the police, we are calling on ourselves too,” Ogyeahohoo Yaw Gyebi said.
The Promotion of Proper Sexual Human Rights and the Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2021 is currently before Parliament.
The controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill is a private member’s bill that was presented to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin. It seeks to among other things criminalize the promotion, advocacy, funding, and acts of homosexuality in the country.
However, the bill has been hit with a number of legal actions seeking to stop its passage.
Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo Prampram, Sam Nartey George, has criticised supporters of the LGBTQ+ community who argue for the right of individuals to choose their own gender, expressing disagreement with their stance.
The MP intimates that the LGBTQ+ people are trying to play God by assigning different sex to themselves order than the ones they were born with. He said this in an interview on Ghanaweb.
The MP posited that God is now showing the LGBTQI community his power because people who were born male but have through operations to become females (female transgenders) are now getting prostate cancer which is a known disease for adult males.
“You see this is at the base of everything, there is a difference between sex and gender. The LGBTQ group try to make them one and the same to confuse the world but you can confuse Sam George and his people.
“Because we know what the difference is. Sex is a binary contrast that is biological and determined by God, you can’t change it. Sex is male and female, that is it. There is nothing beyond male and female.
“… and that is why those of them who claim that they have transgendered from male to female and they are unlucky and they get prostate cancer. You would see the person dressed as a woman with makeup and then she is treating prostate cancer. Transgender women are now having to deal with prostate cancer, you can’t cheat God,” he said.
It has been revealed by Dr Raymond Morbu, the CEO of Andel Premier Medical Centre, that an increasing number of women who engage in lesbian sex are visiting hospitals because of unusual discharges from their private parts.
He attributes this to the use of sex toys to satisfy their sexual desires.
Upon diagnosis, it is often discovered that foreign objects have been left in the vagina, he revealed.
This, he said, leads to an increased risk of HIV/AIDS infections due to cuts and abrasions.
According to Dr Morbu, this trend has emerged after LGBTQ+ activities came to wide public attention in Ghana.
He noted that foreign objects are sometimes found in the vaginas of women who practice lesbianism.
Dr Morbu made these revelations while discussing the rise in the practice of homosexuality and its impact on HIV/AIDS prevalence in Ghana during an interview on Accra 100.5 FM on Monday, July 10, 2023.
He also stated that the women who use sex toys and engage in lesbianism are wealthy individuals who influence young people to join the practice.
Dr Kyeremeh Atuahene, the Director General of the Ghana AIDS Commission, also shared concerns about homosexuality and its role in the spread of HIV.
He emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the issue, stating that HIV prevalence among homosexuals is higher than other general diseases.
Dr Atuahene believes that if the anti-LGBTQ+ bill is passed, it will help in addressing the spread of HIV by reducing new infections.
The government, according to Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, the deputy minister of education, will not submit to any effort to get Ghanaian society to accept the infiltration of offensive, awful sexual perversion being championed by a group as human rights problems.
The Deputy Minister of Education claims that despite threats from investors and advocates of LGBTQ+, the supporters of the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill are unwavering in their commitment to upholding the honor and sanctity of Ghanaian values and culture.
“LGBTQ+ and matters arising is something that we all need to be resolute about. It is about protecting our future generations. You and I are here today because our grandfathers and fathers made the decision to procreate, that a man will marry a woman and a woman will marry a man, and that is why they gave birth to us and why we are giving birth. And our grandchildren are expected to also reproduce.”
“It is an early attempt to put pressure on our society to accept the infiltration of the obnoxious, obscene sexual perversion tendencies that people ascribe as human rights. These are not human rights, so they need help, and we are willing to help them,” he stated.
Rev. Fordjour praised Mr. Bekoe for offering the library facility to kids in the underprivileged neighborhood and urged Ghanaians to boycott any candidate who would politicize the Free Senior High School (FSHS) program and the nation’s educational system.
Mr. Bekoe, on the other hand, asked the community to fully utilize the facility to boost its residents’ reading skills after highlighting the building’s significance for the education of kids in the underprivileged neighborhood.
South Dayi Member of Parliament (MP), Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor, has lashed out at activists, supporters, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, especially those who condemn animal cruelty.
The outspoken MP finds it very ironic and cannot fathom how some people would condemn killing animals, but would not see the harm in others wanting to engage in sexual activities with animals.
“People want to have sex with animals and that’s supposed to be their right. Meanwhile, when I, as an Anlo man, want to drink pepper soup with a cat, they are crying and lamenting over animal cruelty. Meanwhile, you want to have sex with a cat and say it is your right,” he expressed with utmost concern.
During his appearance on CitiTV, the South Dayi MP openly criticised the activities of the LGBTQ+ community, drawing a controversial parallel between individuals engaging in sexual acts with animals and his own cultural culinary practices. He emphasised that there is no distinction between the two in terms of animal cruelty.
He also raised concerns over how dangerous tolerance of the LGBTQ+ community could be, since some members would want to commit paedophilia and claim it is their right.
“The LGBTQ++++++ to infinity, it is one of the categories of people in this class – that they must have the right to sleep with children. People have no idea what is coming. They are asking for the freedom gate to be opened to its widest extent,” he said.
Conversations about the LGBTQ+ community have become increasingly common in recent times, as discussions surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity elicit a wide range of responses. On one hand, there is a growing movement of support and acceptance, with many individuals advocating for the rights and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community. These proponents emphasise equality, inclusivity, and the importance of celebrating diverse identities.
However, alongside this progress, there remains a segment of society that vehemently condemns the LGBTQ+ community. Their viewpoints are often rooted in deeply held religious, cultural or personal beliefs, which they feel compel them to reject or stigmatise individuals based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
As a result, debates and disagreements on LGBTQ+ issues have become more prevalent, reflecting the ongoing struggle to find common ground and promote understanding among differing perspectives. While some advocate for equal rights, access to healthcare and protection against discrimination, others oppose such measures and assert their objections based on traditional values or moral convictions.
Last week, Ghana’s Parliament unanimously adopted the “Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill 2021”. The object of the bill is to provide for proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values and proscribe lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) and related activities. The bill now moves to the consideration stage, after which it will go through the third reading before it is passed into law.
While some believe this move by Parliament may have negative implications for human rights and public health, the parliamentarians believe this is what is best for the country. Speaker Alban Bagbin has also vowed to ensure that the activities of the LGBTQ+ community are not countenanced in the country
Nigerian actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has caused a stir on social media with his controversial prayer for his son Montel Kanayo, who is set to travel to the United States of America to further his education.
The veteran actor shared a short video on Instagram, where he bid farewell to his son and advised him to uphold the values of his humble upbringing and roots. He also urged him to avoid any immoral behaviour and focus on his academic success.
However, what caught the attention of many viewers was his emphasis on his son’s identity as a “he”. He said: “You are going there as a he, you will come back as a he. You will not go there and come back as a they.”
His statement was apparently a reference to transgenderism, which is the condition of identifying with a different gender from one’s biological sex. The actor seemed to imply that he was against his son changing his gender identity or expression while abroad.
His prayer sparked mixed reactions from social media users, who either praised him for his parental guidance or criticised him for his transphobic remarks.
See below some comments under the video:
Kanayo O. Kanayo is one of Nigeria’s most popular and respected actors, who has starred in over 100 movies. What do you think of his prayer for his son?
Watch the video of Kanayo O. Kanayo’s prayer for his son here and see for yourself.
Reverend Ntim Fordjour, Deputy Minister of Education and Member of Parliament for Assin South, has expressed his firm stance that Ghanaians will never accept or condone the activities of the LGBTQ+ community.
Ntim Fordjour who is one of the proponents of the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill insisted that LGBTQ+ activities are only sexual perversion and not a human right.
“Mr. Speaker, many have been said but same-sex marriage is abhorred by all cultures, all religions and the issue of LGBT and all the rights some people ascribe to, I dare say that LGBT is not a human right, it’s a sexual perversion. A sexual perversion that must not be condoned. It is not correct and must not be accepted. It is most absurd for one to be allowed to choose to sleep with a tree, to sleep with an animal or anything at all in the interest and under the guise of human rights. That’s not a human right, that is sexual perversion.
“Sex is assigned at birth and that is the context of gender we are talking about. There is no one that does not have X chromosomes as a woman or XY chromosomes as a man. There is no middle ground,” Ntim Fordjour said.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament during the second reading and debate of the proposed bill, Ntim Fordjour quoted Genesis 1:17-18 as the standard for how marriage and sexual intercourse should be (that is man is to woman).
“If there are some hormonal imbalances and certain attitudinal perversions which have put some people into stating certain obscene preferences, we are ready to support them to reorient in line with Genesis 1:17-18,” he added.
Meanwhile, Ntim Fordjour has questioned the basis of some diplomats describing Ghana as backward over the anti-LGBTQ+ bill currently pending in parliament.
In a social media post, the MP accused such critics of being biased in their criticism.
“I’ve taken notice of some diplomats and LGBTQ activists who are describing our decision to protect the sanctity and dignity of our people and values through the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill as “backwards in civilization and prosperity”. Would these diplomats and activists dare say same thing to Russia, China, Brunei, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait and Qatar? Are these countries backwards in civilization and prosperity? Definitely NOT!” he stated.
Akatsi South MP, Bernard Ahiafor, has made a projection that nations involved in LGBTQ+ practices will cease to exist within the upcoming 50 years.
The MP made this statement during the second reading and debate of the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill before the Parliament House.
Bernard Ahiafor explained that LGBTQ+ countries will be extinct because they are disobeying the law of procreation and unless they ask for labour force from other countries, they will die out.
“Countries practicing LGBTQ+ activity, I give them 50 years by prophecy they will be extinct on earth. Most of those countries will no longer exist on earth, very soon they may even have to be taking labour force from countries not practicing LGBTQ+ activity and that is not the way we are to go,” he said.
The Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill 2021 has been a topic of intense debate in the country, with proponents arguing that it is necessary to safeguard Ghanaian cultural values and norms.
The bill seeks to criminalise LGBTQ+ activities and impose stringent penalties for offenders.
However, there are critics of the bill who argue that it infringes upon the fundamental human rights of individuals and promotes discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
France’s ambassador for LGBTQ rights, Jean-Marc Berthon, revealed the abandonment of a scheduled visit to Cameroon due to the host country’s objections.
The Cameroon government formally objected to the visit stressing in a Foreign Ministry statement that homosexuality was criminalized under existing laws.
Jean-Marc Berthon was due to visit the Central African country from 27 June until 1 July to discuss gender rights, multiple media channels reported earlier this week.
But Cameroon’s foreign minister Lejeune Mbella Mbella in a French language circular sighted by GhanaWeb noted that the government disapproves of the planned visit.
Homosexuality the statement said “qualified as a crime of common law” in Cameroon.
Recently Cameroon’s National Communication Council warned the media against promoting homosexual content, the BBC Africa LIVE report added.
In the ongoing debate concerning the legalization of LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has expressed strong opposition, stating that he would rather face death than support such the move.
He explained that being Catholic, he would rather sit on the fence than be a part of the agenda to legalize the activities of the minority group.
“For you all to participate in it, count me out of Ghana because I will prefer to join my maker than to live. That is me I am a Catholic and I will not do anything that will end the world because God says the world is eternal until he comes back, we cannot do that to end the world,” a report by dailyguidenetwork.com quoted him.
The report added that Alban Bagbin made the comments during a press soirée in Tamale as part of Parliament of Ghana’s 30th anniversary celebration, on the theme: “Thirty(30) years of ParliamentaryDemocracy Under the Fourth Republic; The Journey thus far.”
Parliament is currently considering a Private Member’s Bill titled the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2021, popularly referred to as the Anti-LGBTQI+ Bill.
The bill is spearheaded by the Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam Nartey George.
Chief Justice nominee, Gertrude Araba Esabaa Torkornoo, has stated that she stands on the side of the law when it comes to LGBTQ+ matters.
The Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill is currently before Parliament.
The Bill considered by many as an anti-LGBTQ+ law seeks to criminalize homosexuality and related practices.
Asked about her position on LGBTQ+, when she appeared before the Appointment’s Committee of Parliament, on Friday, May 26, the next Chief Justice of Ghana noted, “I think I have made it clear that when I walk into the court, all my thoughts are soaked in the law”.
Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, who hails from Winneba in the Central Region, if approved, will become the third female Chief Justice in the history of Ghana, after Justices Georgina Theodora Wood and Sophia Akuffo.
She will replace Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah, who retired as Chief Justice on May 24, 2023, who reached the mandatory retirement age of 70 for justices of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court on May 24.
During her vetting, Justice Torkornoo used the opportunity to clarify a number of issues of public interest.
For instance, she refuted claims that theSupreme Court is biased when delivering rulings on political cases.
Justice Torkornoo explained that a unanimous decision by the apex court indicates that the decision is based on the law and not influenced by bias.
“Whenever you encounter a unanimous decision, it tells you that the law is totally on the side of the position taken by the court, that every member of the court in fidelity to their judicial oath cannot take a different position, it tells you that, that is what the law is.
“So the only response is to learn from what the law says, it is not a matter of bias, it is a matter of the legal position.”
Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, the nominee for Chief Justice, has affirmed that her religious beliefs will not interfere with her professional duties as a justice of the law.
She emphasized that she will apply the principles outlined by the law when addressing matters concerning the LGBTQ+ community.
During her vetting with the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Friday, May 2023, Justice Torkornoo drew extensively from the Bible to support her religious beliefs, which are rooted in the Christian faith.
Her articulate references to scripture garnered admiration from the interviewers.
Given her strong religious foundation, the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joe Osei Owusu, posed a direct question about her stance on the contentious issue of LGBTQ+. He inquired about the position she would take when confronted with a conflict between her religious faith and the law.
“As a Christian and a lawyer, having indicated to us in a short while how you’ve managed these two, what will be your professional legal position and your faith position on the matter of LGBTQ and the position of the law?” Joe Osei Owusu asked.
And Justice Torkornoo’s answer was straightforward. “I’ve made it very clear that when I walk into court, all my thoughts are soaked in the law,” she said, eliciting explanations from the chairman that she agrees to implement the law as passed by parliament.
Currently before Parliament, the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill 2021 seeks to criminalize the promotion, advocacy, funding, and acts of homosexuality in Ghana. This bill, which is a private member’s bill, was presented to Speaker Alban Bagbin on June 29, 2021.
During her vetting, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo made it clear that she is bound to uphold the law regarding LGBTQ+ matters.
If approved by the committee, she will assume the role of Chief Justice, succeeding Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah, who retired on May 24 after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70 for justices of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.
The anti-gay bill that was approved by parliament a month ago will now be sent back to the house for further review, according to Uganda’s ruling party.
At a meeting with President Yoweri Museveni, who is the party chairman, the MPs resolved on “proposals for improvement” to the bill, according to a statement from the caucus chairperson of the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
The bill prescribes life imprisonment for people identifying LGBT and the death penalty for what is referred to as aggravated homosexuality, among other clauses.
It is not yet clear what amendments the president would like to be made to the proposed law.
When legislation is passed by parliament, the president has about a month to sign it, veto it or return it to the MPs for amendment and re-tabling.
On several occasions, President Museveni has said the topic of homosexuality needs more discussion and understanding.
The bill was passed with majority support from across the ruling party and the opposition.
The ruling party dominates parliament – and their position on any legislation always prevails.
Critics have argued that the law promotes homophobia, is against the country’s constitution and that anyone suspected to be LGBT will be affected.
