President John Dramani Mahama has urged multilateral institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank to refrain from interfering in Ghana’s domestic cultural and social policies, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ rights.
In an interview with Bloomberg Next Africa, Mahama emphasized that these institutions should prioritize their core economic mandates rather than imposing their values on sovereign nations.
“Multilateral institutions should avoid getting into cultural matters,” Mahama asserted. “This is a diverse world, and we must respect the differences in our cultures.”
His remarks come amid concerns that the World Bank and IMF might withhold financial support if Ghana revives its controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill. The bill, which previously failed to become law due to legal hurdles and a lack of presidential assent, is being reconsidered in parliament.
When asked about the potential withdrawal of funding, Mahama maintained a firm stance: “If they decide to pull funding, that’s their decision. But I strongly believe that institutions like the World Bank and IMF should not extend their mandates to dictate cultural norms.”
The proposed legislation has sparked heated debates in Ghana, with strong opinions from both proponents and opponents. Advocates argue it protects Ghanaian cultural and family values, while critics warn it could lead to human rights violations and international sanctions.
Mahama called for a balanced approach, advocating for extensive stakeholder consultations before any new version of the bill is introduced. “We need broader consultations to ensure that whatever legislation is proposed reflects the diverse views of all stakeholders,” he said.
President also stressed that promoting family values goes beyond passing laws. “Proper family values are something we all care about,” he noted. “But it’s not just about legislation. It’s also about how we educate our children and instill these values as they grow.”
Mahama’s comments underscore the tension between preserving cultural identity and navigating the pressures of international diplomacy, as Ghana continues to grapple with one of the most contentious debates in its modern history.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
