Ghana's Parliament Unanimously Adopts Bill Criminalizing Homosexuality

Strategic Insights -

Ghana's Parliament has made a historic move by unanimously adopting the 'Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2022'. The bill, introduced by eight Members of Parliament (MPs) from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), aims to criminalize lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and related activities in Ghana. The bill now moves to the consideration stage and will require a third reading before it is passed into law. The adoption of the bill has sparked a mix of reactions, with some MPs commending the sponsors for their efforts, while others raising concerns about human rights implications.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 'Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2022' was introduced by eight MPs from the NDC and NPP.
  • The bill aims to criminalize LGBTQ+ and related activities in Ghana.
  • The bill was unanimously adopted by Parliament, with 275 MPs voting in favor.
  • Lead Sponsor, Mr. Samuel Nartey George, cited statistics showing a higher rate of obesity, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts among homosexuals, justifying the need for the bill.
  • Mr. Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, Chairman of the Committee on Constitutional, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, raised concerns about human rights implications, stating that the majority of Ghanaians are in favor of the passage of the bill.
  • Mr. Cletus Avoka commended the sponsors for their efforts and appealed to the President to adopt the Bill and sponsor its passage.
  • Mr. Andrew Asiama Amoako urged the House to unite to ensure the passage of the Bill.

Statistics:

  • Mr. George cited statistics from the CDS showing that persons who engage in homosexuality have a 6 times higher rate of obesity, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts than heterosexual people.
  • 275 MPs voted in favor of the bill.

Sources:

  • Ghana News Agency, "Ghana's Parliament Unanimously Adopted 'Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2022'" (17 Jul 2023)