Don’t Sign Anti-Gay Bill – Amnesty International Ghana To Nana Addo

Amnesty International Ghana has impelled President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo not to approve the controversial anti-gay bill.

The Country Director of Amnesty International Ghana, Genevieve Partington, characterized the bill as a “flagrant violation of privacy rights” that could have severe repercussions for Ghana if enacted into law.

This entreaty was made amidst a meeting encompassing Amnesty International Ghana, numerous Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and the Attorney General, Godfred Dame, on Tuesday, March 12, 2024.

Madam Partington accentuated the apparent impact of the President’s approval of the bill on individuals deemed as homosexuals.

“We are appealing to the President not to sign the bill into law as it will have dire consequences on Ghana.”

Genevieve Partington charged the government to fulfil its duty to insure the rights of all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

She suggested that the Attorney General rapidly address human rights issues such as the Community Sentencing Bill, Death Penalty Bill, and Witchcraft Accusations Bill.

The meeting was attended by Amnesty International Ghana’s Country Director, Genevieve Partington, staff and board members, and representatives from The Sanneh Institute, Perfector of Sentiments (POS) Foundation and Legal Resources Centre.

Parliament passed a bill on February 28, 2024, criminalizing LGBTQ+ activities, including their promotion, advocacy, and funding.

Convicted persons could face imprisonment ranging from 6 months to 3 years, while those found guilty of promoting and sponsoring the act could face a jail term between 3 to 5 years.