BY Claire Mom
Ghana’s parliament has passed a new bill opposing the rights of LGBTQ+ persons.
The “Promotion of proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values bill” was introduced by Sam George, MP for Ningo-Prampram, who has been vocal in the call for the crackdown on LGBTQ+ activities in the country.
Gay sex was already punishable by up to three years in prison in Ghana.
The new bill passed on Wednesday now imposes a prison sentence of up to five years for the “wilful promotion, sponsorship, or support of LGBTQ+ activities”.
The bill also proposes a jail term of up to 10 years for anyone involved in LGBTQ+ advocacy campaigns aimed at children and encourages the public to report members of the queer community to authorities for “necessary action”.
MPs said the bill was drafted in response to the opening of Ghana’s first LGBTQ+ community centre in the capital, Accra, in January 2021.
“After three long years, we have finally passed the HUMAN SEXUAL RIGHTS & FAMILY VALUES ACT 2024,” George tweeted.
“I am grateful to my Colleague sponsors who have waged this battle with me to a successful end. Our collective gratitude goes to our Leadership and the Rt. Hon. Speaker for their guidance and leadership.
“Our values would be protected and defended so long as we have a voice. For God and Country.”
The bill needs presidential assent to come into force.
President Nana Akufo-Addo has not confirmed if he will sign the bill into law but he had previously said he would do so if the majority of Ghanaians want him to.
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