Moses Foh-Amoaning, the Executive Secretary for the National Coalition for Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, says he is confident that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo would assent to the recently passed anti-LGBTQ+ Bill by Parliament.
The comprehensive bill effectively criminalizes LGBTQ activities, along with the promotion, advocacy, and funding of such activities. Those found guilty could face severe legal consequences, including a jail term ranging from 6 months to 3 years for individuals involved in LGBTQ activities, while promoters and sponsors of the act could face even stiffer penalties with a 3 to 5 year jail term.
The legislation, passed on February 28, 2024, has ignited a wave of both support and criticism, with international bodies expressing concerns over its potential impact on human rights.
The spokesperson for the U.S State Department, Matthew Miller, in a press statement, expressed concern over the potential negative impact of the bill on Ghana’s public health, media, civic spaces, and economy. He pointed out that the legislation not only contradicts Ghana’s tradition of tolerance, peace, and respect for human rights but could also have far-reaching economic consequences on the country.
However, Foh-Amoaning, in an interview with reporters, emphasized the potential political implications if the President fails to sign the Bill, warning that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) could gain political advantage in the 2024 general elections.
“Well, the President is a very smart politician and what I’ve told everybody who asked me this question is, first of all, there’s no President who has ascended the presidency of Ghana who has used the word of God more than this President. So, the point I’m trying to make is, with all that I know about the President, I know he will sign this bill.
“If he refuses to sign, it would be very easy for the NDC, [they] will just package the NPP as Trumu Trumu party,” he stated.
President Akufo-Addo’s stance on the controversial bill remains a topic of intense speculation, with supporters calling for the approval of the bill while others protest for a reconsideration of the legislation.
