The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), has notified the public that it will be joining any group that goes to the Supreme Court or even lead the charge if President Akufo-Addo assents the anti-LGBTQ+ bill passed by Parliament.
The bill imposes a prison sentence of up to three years for anyone convicted of identifying as LGBTQ+. It also imposes a maximum five-year jail term for promoting LGBTQ+ activities.
Concerns of human rights violations have been raised by civil society groups,the international community and the United States,also warning that there may be serious implication for Ghana’s economic development.
In a press release, Matthew Miller, spokesperson of the State Department explained that the framework would threaten all Ghanaians’ constitutionally protected freedoms of speech, press, and assembly.
“The bill would also undermine Ghana’s valuable public health, media,civic spaces and economy. International business coalitions have already stated that such discrimination in Ghana would harm business and economic growth in the country,”the statement added.
However, in line with its constitutional mandate, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice says the president must not assent to the bill to become law.
Commissioner of CHRAJ, Joseph Whittal recounted that his outfit would support or lead any move to the Supreme Court if the bill is approved.
“We can’t just get up and throw them [LGBTQ persons] out and say, we don’t need them. Your culture gave birth to these people. You need to protect them as well. It’s early days, yes, but I can imagine that we will be close to joining such groups or even taking the lead,”he said.
Ghanaians are currently awaiting the position of President Akufo-Addo as he is expected to assent to the bill or explain to parliament why he is unable to let the bill pass.
