In a country deeply rooted in Christian values and cultural heritage, the acceptance of the LGBTQ lifestyle is viewed as both peculiar and ethically questionable, contradicting the core beliefs of Ghanaians.
The recent passage of the LGBTQ law in Parliament has sparked reservations from various civil society organizations, arguing that it infringes on the fundamental human rights of individuals identifying with the practice.
During an interview on the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor 92.3 FM, Member of Parliament for La Dade Kotopon, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, voiced her concerns regarding the cultural clash arising from the legislation.
In response to criticism, Samuel Nartey George, the leading advocate for the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values bill, dismissed apprehensions about its potential negative impact on the country’s development. Parliament’s approval of the bill establishes penalties ranging from a 6-month to 3-year jail term for individuals engaged in LGBTQ activities, with promoters and sponsors facing a 3 to 5-year jail term.
Contrary to fears of economic repercussions, the Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram downplayed concerns, citing Uganda’s economic growth despite international sanctions. He argued that businesses operate in Ghana primarily for profit, rather than being influenced by LGBTQ rights.
However, Professor Audrey Gadzekpo, the Board Chair of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), expressed disappointment at the bill’s approval. She emphasized that the implications of the legislation extend beyond personal sexual preferences, impacting the entire population. Gadzekpo revealed that a collective of eighteen individuals had previously raised concerns with the bill, submitting a memo to the parliamentary committee working on it.
Despite the criticisms, optimism persists among supporters of the legislation. Rita Naa Odoley Sowah expressed confidence that President Nana Addo will take the necessary steps to formally endorse the bill into law, asserting that it is essential to safeguard the country as a Christian nation and uphold its cultural values.
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