President Akufo-Addo has spoken for the first on Human Sexual Rights and Family Values bill recently passed by Ghana’s Parliament.
Following the passage of the bill, there’s some seeming pressure on the President.
While the sponsors of the Bill, Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) and others have called on the President to assent to the bill, the Ministry of Finance is pleading with President Akufo-Addo against it.
According to the Finance Ministry’s statement, Ghana stands to lose a substantial amount of World Bank financing, estimating a potential loss of USD$3.8 billion over the next five to six years.
The President reacting to this in a statement on Monday, March 4 said a concerned citizen has taken the matter to court and will be waiting on the verdict before the next step forward for Ghana.
"But, suffice it to say, that I have learnt that, today, a challenge has been mounted at the Supreme Court by a concerned citizen to the constitutionality of the proposed legislation.
“In the circumstances, it would be, as well, for all of us to hold our hands, and await the decision of the Court before any action is taken. The operation of the institutions of the Ghanaian state will determine the future trajectory of the rule of law and human rights compliance in our country, the President stated.
The bill passed on February 28 criminalizes LGBTQ+ activities, as well as their promotion, advocacy, and funding.
Those found guilty could face a jail term ranging from 6 months to 3 years, while those promoting and sponsoring the act could face a jail term between 3 to 5 years.
