US Ambassador sends strong warning to Ghana over Anti-LGBTQ+ bill passage

The bill, which aims to criminalize LGBTQ activities in Ghana, proposes strict penalties, including imprisonment, for individuals engaged in such activities and LGBTQ advocacy.

It also seeks to prohibit the promotion of LGBTQ rights, organizations, and events in the country. Despite efforts by some members of Parliament to amend the bill citing human rights concerns, the bill ultimately passed after a contentious session.

Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s attempts to make amendments during the second consideration stage were rejected by the Minority, leading to the Speaker pushing for the third consideration stage, where the bill was passed with a voice vote.

Now, the bill awaits President Akufo-Addo’s assent to become law. Prior to its passage, there were several amendments made to the bill, including setting a minimum custodial sentence of three years and a maximum of five years for promoters and sympathizers.

Individuals caught directly engaging in LGBTQ activities will face a minimum sentence of six months, extendable to a maximum of three years.