Ghana Parliament Passes Controversial Bill Restricting LGBTQ Rights

Ghana Parliament Passes Controversial Bill Restricting LGBTQ Rights

VoM News Desk | February 29, 2024 | 09:11 AM IST | Breaking News, World | Follow on Google News

Ghana Parliament Passes Controversial Bill Restricting LGBTQ Rights/Reuters

Ghana Parliament Passes Controversial Bill Restricting LGBTQ Rights

Ghana’s parliament has approved the “Human Sexual Rights and Family Values” bill, a controversial legislation severely restricting LGBTQ rights. Sponsored by a coalition of religious and traditional leaders, the bill criminalizes LGBTQ sexual acts and promotes prison sentences for those engaging in or supporting LGBTQ activities. Despite condemnation from rights activists, the bill, one of the harshest in Africa, awaits validation by the president. President Nana Akufo-Addo, who opposes gay marriage, is expected to validate the bill. Activists criticize the legislation, calling it a setback for human rights and a violation of the LGBTQ community’s identity.

Judge Bars Trump from Illinois GOP Ballot Over Capitol Attack Role

Ghana Parliament Passes Controversial Bill Restricting LGBTQ Rights – Key Points

1. Anti-LGBTQ Legislation Passes: Ghana’s parliament approves the “Human Sexual Rights and Family Values” bill, criminalizing LGBTQ sexual acts and supporting prison sentences for those promoting LGBTQ rights.
2. Sponsorship by Coalition: The bill receives sponsorship from a coalition of Christian, Muslim, and Ghanaian traditional leaders, garnering significant support among lawmakers.
3. President’s Approval Expected: The bill, requiring validation by the president before becoming law, is likely to be approved by President Nana Akufo-Addo, who has voiced opposition to gay marriage.

1. Harsh Penalties: The legislation proposes imprisonment ranging from six months to three years for those engaging in LGBTQ sexual acts. It also stipulates a prison sentence of three to five years for promoting or supporting LGBTQ activities.
2. Outcry from Activists: Rights activists condemn the bill, calling it a setback for human rights. The legislation is criticized for criminalizing LGBTQ identity and fostering an environment of fear and persecution.
3. Appeal to President: Activists urge President Akufo-Addo not to validate the bill, emphasizing its violation of the human rights of the LGBTQ community.
4. Potential Marginalization: Members of Ghana’s LGBTQ community express concern over the implications of the bill, fearing further marginalization and endangerment.

Ghana Parliament Passes Controversial Bill Restricting LGBTQ Rights – Conclusion

The bill’s approval in Ghana’s parliament reflects a divisive stance on LGBTQ rights in the country, with significant support from religious and traditional leaders. The potential validation by President Akufo-Addo raises concerns among rights activists and the LGBTQ community.

VoM News Desk

VoM News is an online web portal in jammu Kashmir offers regional, National & global news.