US Expresses Deep Concern Over Ghana’s Anti-LGBTQ Legislation

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The United States has expressed deep concern over the passage of stringent anti-LGBTQ legislation in Ghana’s parliament. The legislation intensifies a crackdown on the rights of LGBTQ individuals and those advocating for non-conventional sexual or gender identities in the West African country.

Previously, gay sex was punishable by up to three years in prison. The new bill extends the punishment to include a prison sentence of up to five years for the promotion, sponsorship, or support of LGBTQ+ activities.

The U.S. State Department emphasized that the bill seeks to criminalize individuals who identify as LGBTQI+, as well as anyone who fails to report them, including friends, family, or community members. Moreover, it warned that the bill would undermine Ghana’s public health, media, civic spaces, and economy.

The United States urged Ghana to review the constitutionality of the bill to protect the rights of all individuals in the country.

The legislation was sponsored by a coalition of Christian, Muslim, and Ghanaian traditional leaders, making it one of the harshest anti-LGBTQ laws in Africa. Following its passage in parliament, the bill will be presented to President Nana Akufo-Addo, who will have seven days to either assent to or refuse the bill according to Ghana’s constitution.