In a significant legal development, Ghana’s Supreme Court has turned down two attempts aimed at halting the enactment of a contentious piece of legislation targeting the LGBTQ+ community. This legislation, formally known as the Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, received parliamentary approval in February.
Under this bill, individuals from sexual minorities could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years for engaging in homosexual relations. While the bill boasts substantial backing within Ghana, it has attracted considerable international criticism for infringing upon the rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ people.
The Supreme Court’s judgment hinged on the fact that the bill has not yet been signed into law by outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo. The court argued that, without his signature, the bill cannot be declared unconstitutional. It’s worth noting that Nana Akufo-Addo’s successor, John Mahama, has openly expressed his opposition to the expansion of LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana. Nonetheless, he has not yet made a definitive statement regarding whether he will sign this specific bill into law.
This situation paints a troubling picture of human rights in Ghana, where public opinion seems polarized on the matter. “Laws that discriminate only breed hatred,” stated an LGBTQ+ rights advocate who wished to remain anonymous. Many supporters of the bill argue it’s necessary for the preservation of traditional family values, often dismissing international outcries as foreign interference. However, critics maintain that human rights should be universal, and that such laws foster an atmosphere of violence and discrimination.
The Ghanaian government’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues reflects broader societal views, which, according to various surveys, largely regard homosexuality as unacceptable. Cultural norms typically emphasize heterosexual relationships, making it difficult for LGBTQ+ individuals to live openly and without fear. There’s a growing concern among activists that this bill may incite violence against sexual minorities, further ostracizing a community that is already marginalized.
This push for restrictive legislation is not just a local phenomenon; it ties into a broader narrative across parts of Africa, where similar laws targeting LGBTQ+ rights have been introduced or reinforced in recent years. Activists argue this trend demonstrates a lack of respect for human rights, often justified by an appeal to cultural preservation or national identity.
Faced with such challenges, many in the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana fear for their safety. “We live in constant vigilance,” shared a local activist. “Every day feels like a battle, and the looming threat of this bill makes our fight harder.” Despite these struggles, there are glimmers of hope. Various organizations are working on the ground to provide support and raise awareness about the importance of diversity and acceptance. “We must not lose hope. Change is possible, albeit slow,” a prominent human rights lawyer said, encapsulating the resilience of those advocating for progress.
As the legal landscape in Ghana evolves, global attention also remains focused on the country. Officials from foreign governments and international bodies continue to express their concerns about the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals in Ghana. “Ghana’s decisions will be watched closely; the ramifications of their actions could resonate well beyond their borders,” observed a human rights expert.
Ultimately, the unfolding saga of the Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill signifies a pivotal moment for the intersection of law, culture, and human rights in Ghana. It raises essential questions about the balance between tradition and individual rights, and whether the country’s legal framework will evolve to reflect a more inclusive society. All eyes are now on Ghana, awaiting either a commitment to protect its sexual minorities or a stark affirmation of its current trajectory. The unfolding events may very well shape the future of advocacy, acceptance, and rights for LGBTQ+ individuals, not only in Ghana but throughout the region.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
