Ghana’s parliament recently passed a stringent new bill that imposes severe penalties on individuals identifying as LGBTQ+. According to the new legislation, anyone found guilty of such identification could face imprisonment for up to three years. Additionally, the bill establishes a maximum prison sentence of five years for those involved in founding or supporting LGBTQ+ organizations. Despite calls for alternatives such as community service and counseling, legislators have maintained the imposition of jail terms.
It’s noteworthy that Ghana already criminalizes gay intercourse, which carries a three-year prison sentence. Amnesty International had previously cautioned against the bill, highlighting its potential to violate the fundamental rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ individuals. The organization’s warning, issued last month, underscored the significant threats posed by the legislation.
Concerns have also been raised by activists, who fear that LGBTQ+ community members and advocates may be forced into hiding to avoid potential witch hunts. Winnie Byanyima, the head of the UN committee addressing HIV, echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill could exacerbate fear and hatred. Byanyima warned that it might even incite violence against Ghanaian citizens and negatively impact fundamental freedoms such as free speech, freedom of movement, and freedom of association.
