Ghana's anti-LGBTQ+ bill to be scrutinised before approval, president says

Ghana's President John Mahama has stated that a recently passed bill criminalizing LGBTQ+ activities will undergo scrutiny before official approval. The bill, which proposes prison sentences for identifying as LGBTQ+ and a duty to report such acts, was passed by parliament as a private member's motion. Mahama indicated that his legal council and attorney general will review it, and it may be referred to the Council of State if issues arise. He also mentioned procedural lapses during its passage that are being addressed. This legislation follows pressure from religious leaders and is the second attempt by MPs to enact such measures, with a similar bill introduced in 2021.

Ghana's parliament has passed a sweeping bill criminalizing LGBTQ+ activities and identity, with prison sentences ranging from three to ten years. The legislation, expected to be signed into law by President John Dramani Mahama, also mandates reporting suspected LGBTQ+ individuals. Community groups report that LGBTQ+ people are panicking, fearing eviction, job loss, and denial of healthcare. While healthcare professionals and lawyers are exempted from prosecution for providing services, activists believe stigma will deter people from seeking help. This bill expands on existing colonial-era laws and is seen by its sponsor as protecting Ghanaian family and cultural values, while critics argue it infringes on fundamental freedoms and impacts allies and civil society groups.

Ghana's parliament has passed a bill that criminalizes same-sex acts and the promotion of LGBTQ+ activities. Under the new legislation, identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer can result in up to three years in prison. The bill also mandates a "duty to report" prohibited acts to the police. The sponsor of the bill stated it aims to protect Ghanaian family and cultural values and make existing laws more stringent. International organizations, such as Human Rights Watch, have criticized the bill, warning it puts LGBTQ+ individuals at risk and encourages surveillance. The legislation still requires ratification by President John Dramani Mahama.