U.S. Ambassador Expresses Concern and Sadness Over Ghana’s Anti-LGBTQ Bill

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U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has expressed profound sadness regarding the passage of Ghana’s Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill.

She emphasized the significant impact it will have on the rights of LGBTQ individuals as well as all Ghanaians.

Ambassador Palmer highlighted that the bill not only violates fundamental human rights but also undermines constitutional freedoms, including freedom of speech, assembly, and the press.

Furthermore, she issued a warning about the potential negative consequences of the bill. These implications encompass public order, public health, Ghana’s international reputation, and its economy.

Also Read: Implications and Reactions: Should Prez. Akufo-Addo Reject the Anti-Gay Bill

“I am saddened because some of the smartest, most creative, most decent people I know are LGBT. The bill Parliament passed takes away not only their basic human rights but those of all Ghanaians because it undermines their constitutional rights to freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and freedom of the press. It will be bad for public order and public health. If enacted, it will also hurt Ghana’s international reputation and Ghana’s economy.” she quoted in a tweet.

The recently passed bill in Ghana aims to criminalize LGBTQ activities and impose strict penalties, including imprisonment, on individuals involved in such activities and LGBTQ advocacy. The bill also seeks to prohibit the promotion of LGBTQ rights, organizations, and events within the country.

During the parliamentary session, there were attempts by some members to amend the bill due to concerns about human rights. However, these efforts were unsuccessful, and the bill ultimately passed after a contentious session. Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s proposed amendments during the second consideration stage were rejected by the Minority, leading to the Speaker moving to the third consideration stage, where the bill was passed through a voice vote.

The bill now awaits President Akufo-Addo’s assent in order to become law. Prior to its passage, several amendments were made to the bill, including the establishment of a minimum custodial sentence of three years and a maximum of five years for promoters and sympathizers. Individuals directly involved in LGBTQ activities may face a minimum sentence of six months, which can be extended to a maximum of three years.

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