On 28 February 2024, Ghana broke the status quo surrounding homosexual practices on its territory. Parliamentarians passed a bill condemning homosexuals and those who promote such activities and fight for the rights of homosexuals.
The bill has caused an uproar in political circles in the country and elsewhere. Presented in 2021 and adopted in 2024, the bill, which is awaiting approval by President Nana Akufo Addo, has been condemned by activists and associations defending the rights of gays, lesbians and other non-conventional sexual or gender identities.
They say the bill is a setback for human rights and urge the Addo government to reject it. But President Nana Akufo Addo has long indicated that same-sex marriage would never be authorised while he is in power.
The bill stipulates that those arrested in connection with same-sex activities will be liable to prison sentences ranging from 6 months to 3 years, and those who deliberately promote, sponsor or support LGBTQ+ activities from 3 to 5 years.
A coalition of religious and traditional leaders sponsored the bill passed by parliament. But for Alex Donkor, Founder and director of the organisation LGBT+ Rights Ghana, the bill “not only legalises discrimination but also fosters an environment of fear and persecution”.
Heated debates on this burning issue continue in an opaque political and economic climate just a few months ahead of the general elections in December.
