The recent decision by Ghana’s parliament to approve a contentious bill aimed at curtailing LGBTQ rights has drawn condemnation from human rights activists and the United States. Sponsored by a coalition of religious and traditional leaders, the legislation received widespread support among lawmakers and was passed on Wednesday.
The United States, expressing disappointment, highlighted the potential negative impact of the law on Ghana’s human rights record and its economy. In a tweet, the US Embassy in Ghana lamented the erosion of basic human rights and constitutional freedoms emphasizing the adverse effects on public order, public health, and Ghana’s international standing.
Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the US Department of State, echoed these concerns, stating: “The Ghanaian parliament’s passage of a bill criminalizing members of the LGBTQI+ community imperils the rights of all its people, its international reputation, and its economic development. Ghana’s laudable tradition of tolerance will be undermined if this bill becomes law.”
The legislation targets individuals who engage in LGBTQ sexual activities. It includes those advocating for the rights of gay, lesbian, and other non-conventional sexual or gender identities. It therefore imposes imprisonment as punishment.
Last year, after a visit to Accra by Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, the Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo faced criticism. The press and even from other authorities in the nation accused him of making comments suggesting a relaxation of the bill.
However, Akufo-Addo was not very clear. He only emphasized that after parliamentary deliberations, a final bill would be sent to him for assent. “From what I understand (…), substantial elements of the bill have already been amended following the intervention of the Attorney General,” he said.
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