The Executive Secretary for the National Coalition for Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, Mr. Moses Foh-Amoaning, has cautioned the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that there will be a significant political price to pay if President Nana Akufo-Addo refuses to sign the recently passed anti-LGBTQI bill.
The bill on Human Sexual Rights and Family Values, also known as the anti-LGBTQ bill, was approved by the country’s legislature criminalizing LGBT activities and banning their promotion, advocacy, and funding. Individuals engaged in such activities could face jail terms ranging from six months to three years, while promoters and sponsors could be sentenced to three to five years.
Before the bill’s passage, sponsors initiated a motion for further consideration, leading to amendments proposed by MP Samuel Nartey George regarding clauses 10 and 11 concerning media firms’ editorial policies. These amendments, aligning with Article 12 of the 1992 constitution guaranteeing media freedom, were approved by the House.
However, a motion to subject clause 12, addressing the funding of LGBT activities, to the constitution filed by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin was rejected by the House.
The bill’s approval by Parliament came after a plea from Professor Audrey Gadzekpo, Board Chair of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), asking President Akufo-Addo to disapprove it. The bill cannot take effect until the President signs it into law.
Mr Foh-Amoaning expressed confidence in President Akufo-Addo’s stance, citing his background of faith and belief in God. He warned that if the President fails to sign the bill, it could have electoral implications for the NPP, as the opposition NDC could use it as a campaign tool, labeling the ruling party as the “Trumu Trumu” party in the run-up to the December 2024 elections.
Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
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