The United States has said it is “deeply troubled” by the passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill (anti-LGBTQ+) by Ghana’s parliament, adding that it threatens constitutional freedoms.
The bill which was passed on Wednesday is set to criminalize the promotion, advocacy, funding and acts of homosexuality.
It stiffens prison terms up to ten years in prison for LGBTQ+ advocates and three years for anyone identifying as such
A statement issued by the US on Wednesday (28 February) called for a review of the constitutionality of the bill to protect the rights of all individuals in Ghana.
“The United States is deeply troubled by the Ghanaian Parliament’s passage of legislation, officially called the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which would threaten all Ghanaians’ constitutionally protected freedoms of speech, press, and assembly. 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. Limiting the rights of one group in a society undermines the rights of all. 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.
“The bill would also undermine Ghana’s valuable public health, media and civic spaces, and economy. International business coalitions have already stated that such discrimination in Ghana would harm business and economic growth in the country.”
“Ghana’s tradition of tolerance, peace, and respect for human rights is a source of stability and prosperity that has long served as a model for countries around the globe. This legislation is inconsistent with these values and will, if it becomes law, undermine this laudable tradition,” the statement said.
Reporting by Fred Dzakpata
