Ghana Passes Controversial Bill Criminalizing LGBTQ+ Identities and Advocacy
In a move that has sparked outrage and concern among human rights activists, Ghana’s parliament has recently passed a new bill that criminalizes LGBTQ+ identities and advocacy. The bill imposes prison sentences of up to three years for individuals convicted of identifying as LGBTQ+, and a maximum of five years for those involved in forming or funding LGBTQ+ groups. This development reflects the growing opposition to LGBTQ+ rights in the conservative West African nation.
The bill, which received support from Ghana’s two major political parties, will only come into effect if President Nana Akufo-Addo signs it into law. President Akufo-Addo has previously stated that he would do so if the majority of Ghanaians want him to. It is worth noting that gay sex is already illegal in Ghana and carries a three-year prison sentence.
Last month, Amnesty International warned that the bill “poses significant threats to the fundamental rights and freedoms” of LGBTQ+ individuals. Activists fear that this legislation will lead to witch-hunts against members of the LGBTQ+ community and those advocating for their rights, forcing many to go into hiding. Winnie Byanyima, the head of the UN body tackling AIDS, expressed her concerns, stating that the bill could incite violence, hinder access to life-saving services, and undermine Ghana’s development progress.
The bill also proposes a harsh jail term of up to 10 years for individuals involved in LGBTQ+ advocacy campaigns targeting children. Additionally, it encourages the public to report LGBTQ+ individuals to authorities for “necessary action.” Members of parliament explained that the bill was drafted in response to the opening of Ghana’s first LGBTQ+ community center in January 2021. The center was subsequently closed by the police following public protests and pressure from religious bodies and traditional leaders in the predominantly Christian nation. The Christian Council of Ghana and the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council issued a joint statement, asserting that being LGBTQ+ is “alien to the Ghanaian culture and family value system.”
It is important to note that the bill passed by lawmakers is a modified version of an earlier draft. Some changes include shorter jail terms and the removal of a controversial clause on conversion therapy. During the days-long debate, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the deputy parliamentary leader of the governing party, proposed further amendments. He suggested that lawmakers should decide, through a secret ballot, whether individuals convicted of being members of the LGBTQ+ community should be imprisoned or ordered to undergo community service and counseling. However, his proposal was met with opposition from lawmakers who supported prison sentences.
The passing of this bill has raised concerns about the state of LGBTQ+ rights in Africa. Several countries on the continent have recently implemented or proposed anti-LGBTQ+ laws, leading to increased discrimination and persecution. It is crucial for the international community to address these human rights violations and advocate for the protection and inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide.
In conclusion, Ghana’s new bill criminalizing LGBTQ+ identities and advocacy has sparked controversy and fear among human rights activists. The legislation imposes prison sentences for those identifying as LGBTQ+ and involved in supporting LGBTQ+ groups. The bill’s passing reflects a growing opposition to LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana, with concerns raised about potential witch-hunts and violations of fundamental freedoms. It is essential for global efforts to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and promote inclusivity in societies worldwide.