A group of ten MPs in Ghana has reintroduced a contentious bill that looks to impose stringent penalties on individuals who identify as LGBT. The proposed legislation would enforce significant prison sentences, stirring debate both locally and internationally regarding human rights implications.
Ghana's Parliament Reassesses Anti-LGBT Legislation as Controversy Resurfaces
Ghana's Parliament Reassesses Anti-LGBT Legislation as Controversy Resurfaces
Ghanaian lawmakers revive a divisive bill aiming to enforce severe penalties on LGBT individuals and advocates.
The recently resubmitted bill, which was previously passed by parliament but not signed into law by former President Akufo Addo, outlines severe consequences for those identifying as gay, facing up to three years in prison, while supporters and promoters could be handed five to ten years. The bill expired along with the last parliamentary session, leading to its reintroduction amidst concerns from human rights groups.
Among those expressing horror at the bill’s resurgence is Va-Bene Elikem Fiatsi, a Ghanaian trans woman and LGBT activist, who described the situation as "disheartening." She maintains that activism will continue regardless of legislative efforts against their community. Human Rights Watch emphasized that the legislation contradicts Ghana's reputation for peace and tolerance and could further escalate violence against LGBT individuals.
The bill's controversial nature raises questions on its economic repercussions, with former finance minister warning it could jeopardize substantial development funding from the World Bank and disrupt the country’s IMF support programs. Still, some lawmakers argue that the current political climate may favor conservative policies, emboldening the pro-legislation stance.
While President John Dramani Mahama prefers a state-sponsored approach with broader consultations, it remains uncertain whether the new parliamentary speaker will allow the bill to move forward for consideration. Despite notable opposition, supporters claim that the legislation is necessary to protect what they regard as Ghanaian culture and family values. The ongoing internal and international scrutiny suggests that the future of this divisive bill will continue to generate significant debate in Ghana.
Among those expressing horror at the bill’s resurgence is Va-Bene Elikem Fiatsi, a Ghanaian trans woman and LGBT activist, who described the situation as "disheartening." She maintains that activism will continue regardless of legislative efforts against their community. Human Rights Watch emphasized that the legislation contradicts Ghana's reputation for peace and tolerance and could further escalate violence against LGBT individuals.
The bill's controversial nature raises questions on its economic repercussions, with former finance minister warning it could jeopardize substantial development funding from the World Bank and disrupt the country’s IMF support programs. Still, some lawmakers argue that the current political climate may favor conservative policies, emboldening the pro-legislation stance.
While President John Dramani Mahama prefers a state-sponsored approach with broader consultations, it remains uncertain whether the new parliamentary speaker will allow the bill to move forward for consideration. Despite notable opposition, supporters claim that the legislation is necessary to protect what they regard as Ghanaian culture and family values. The ongoing internal and international scrutiny suggests that the future of this divisive bill will continue to generate significant debate in Ghana.
