Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ghanaian Times
Published on 2024-02-29 09:34:28
The Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill has been officially passed into law by Parliament, marking a significant development in Ghana’s legislative landscape. This anti-LGBTQI+ legislation prohibits same-sex relationships and related activities within the country.
The bill, which was introduced by lead advocate Sam Nartey George, MP for Ningo/Prampram, underwent a second consideration of two clauses before being passed in Accra. Attempts by the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, to introduce further amendments to the bill were rejected by the Speaker, who believed that the sponsors should have the opportunity to make any necessary changes.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin had previously proposed amendments to replace custodial sentences with non-custodial sentences for offenders during an earlier session of the House. However, these proposals were not accepted by the House, leading to the eventual passing of the bill.
The sponsors of the Bill include Alhassan Suhuyini, Emmanuel Bedzrah, Helen Ntorsu, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, Dela Sowah, and John Ntim Fordjour, representing both the NDC and NPP parties. The bill, initially known as the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, will now be called the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Act if approved by the president.
Under the new law, individuals involved in the propaganda, advocacy, or promotion of LGBTQI+ activities may face a minimum of three years and a maximum of five years of imprisonment if found guilty. This controversial legislation has garnered attention both locally and internationally and has been met with opposition from various sectors of Ghanaian society, particularly human rights advocates.
Over 150 memoranda and over 20 public hearings were held on the bill, allowing stakeholders both for and against the legislation to present their cases before lawmakers. Despite being scheduled for passage during a previous House meeting, the bill faced delays due to competing priorities such as the 2024 budget statement and appropriation.
Civil Society Organizations have called on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo not to sign the bill into law if passed by Parliament, reflecting the ongoing debate and controversy surrounding the legislation.
In conclusion, the passing of the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill into law represents a significant development in Ghana’s legal framework, sparking debate and discussion both domestically and internationally. The implications of this legislation on human rights and LGBTQI+ rights in Ghana remain a topic of ongoing discussion and concern.
Read the original article on Ghanaian Times
