Ghana Parliament Passes Controversial Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, Ghanaian Member of Parliament and sponsor of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, speaks to the media after the legislation was passed by Parliament in Accra.

Ghana’s Parliament has approved a controversial bill criminalising same-sex relationships and the promotion of LGBTQ+ activities, in a move that now awaits presidential assent from President John Dramani Mahama.

Under the proposed law, identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer could attract a prison sentence of up to three years. 

The legislation also introduces penalties of up to five years’ imprisonment for anyone found to be promoting, sponsoring, or supporting LGBTQ+ activities, including those described as “allies.” 

The bill further includes a “duty to report” provision requiring individuals to report suspected prohibited LGBTQ+ activities to authorities. 

However, exemptions are provided for legal practitioners, journalists, and healthcare workers carrying out professional duties, including reporting, media coverage, or medical care.

The legislation, sponsored by Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, a Ghanaian Member of Parliament, argues that it strengthens existing laws and protects “family and cultural values.” The bill follows a similar version passed in 2024 that was not signed into law by former President Nana Akufo-Addo. 

Human rights groups, including Human Rights Watch, have strongly criticised the measure, warning it could endanger lives and encourage public surveillance and discrimination. (Source: BBC News)

TAGS:

#Ghana #LGBTQBill #JohnNtimFordjour #JohnDramaniMahama #HumanRights #AfricaNews #BBCNews