US expresses concerns over harsh anti-LGBTQ+ legislation by Ghana’s parliament
The United States government said on Wednesday it was “deeply troubled” by the passage of tough anti-LGBTQ legislation in Ghana’s parliament.
It then called for a review of the “constitutionality of the bill” that imposes a prison sentence of up to five years for the “wilful promotion, sponsorship, or support of LGBTQ+ activities.”
The U.S. State Department said in a statement said “The bill seeks to criminalize any person who simply identifies as LGBTQI+, as well as any friend, family, or member of the community who does not report them.
It added: “The United States echoes the call by those Ghanaians who have urged a review of the constitutionality of the bill to protect the rights of all individuals in Ghana.”
MPs in the West African country passed stringent new legislation that mandates a prison term of up to three years for individuals found to be identifying as LGBTQ+.
The legislation also seeks to enforce a maximum five-year jail sentence for those involved in forming or financially supporting LGBTQ+ organizations in the country.
The objective of the bill, according to lawmakers, is to provide for proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian Family Values, which prohibit lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ+), and related activities.
The legislation, supported by Ghana’s two main political parties, will only come into effect upon approval by President Nana Akufo-Addo.
President Akufo-Addo had previously stated his willingness to sign it into law if it aligns with the desires of the majority of Ghanaians.
