Ghanaian lawmaker Sam George, known for spearheading Ghana’s stringent anti-LGBTQ legislation, presents himself as a defender of gay Ghanaians, asserting that he has enacted laws safeguarding their rights from verbal and physical attacks, as conveyed in an interview with CNN from Accra.
However, despite his assertions, the recently enacted bill by Ghana’s parliament imposes severe penalties merely for identifying as LGBTQ, including fines or up to three years of imprisonment. Moreover, individuals convicted of “promoting” gay rights can face up to five years behind bars, according to the legislation.
While George maintains that those accused should receive a fair trial before a competent court, critics argue that the law raises concerns about potential human rights violations.
The swift passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Act in February, with no opposition in parliament, marks a significant triumph for George and a coalition of religious and secular conservatives in Ghana. Yet, it reflects a broader trend of homophobic legislation emerging across the continent.
Despite allegations linking US right-wing organizations to the legislation, George acknowledges meeting with conservative groups in the United States advocating for “family values,” although he asserts covering his own expenses for such trips.
The enactment of the bill spells distress for LGBTQ Ghanaians, exacerbating inequality and potentially limiting their access to legal and medical services, according to Alex Kofi Donkor, founder of LGBT+ Rights in Ghana.
As the legislation takes effect, it places Ghanaian President Akufo-Addo in a delicate position amidst competing domestic and international pressures. With elections looming in December, Akufo-Addo faces calls from both conservative factions within Ghana and international stakeholders.
However, the economic implications of the bill are not lost on the government, as an internal memo from Ghana’s Ministry of Finance suggests potential losses of US$3.8 billion in World Bank financing over the next several years due to the legislation.
While the courts may offer a potential reprieve for Akufo-Addo, who has pledged not to make a decision on the bill until a legal challenge is resolved, navigating the complex political landscape surrounding LGBTQ rights in Ghana remains a formidable task for the president.