The bill now awaits President Akufo-Addo’s signature, a moment that will be critical for the ongoing debate over LGBT rights and freedoms in Ghana. Photo Credit: CNN
Ghana’s Supreme Court on Wednesday, dismissed two legal challenges to the country’s controversial anti-LGBT law, clearing the way for President Nana Akufo-Addo to sign the bill into law.
The legislation, which was approved unanimously by parliament in February, strengthens penalties for same-sex relations and criminalizes the promotion of LGBT rights and identities.
The legal challenges were filed by lawyers Amanda Odoi and Richard Sky, who argued that the bill was unconstitutional and sought to prevent the president from signing it.
However, in a televised ruling, Justice Avril Lovelace-Johnson stated that the challenges were “premature” since the bill had not yet received presidential assent.
Supporters of the bill, including a coalition of Christian, Muslim, and traditional leaders, argue that it is necessary to protect the country’s moral values.
The law not only increases penalties for gay sex, already punishable by up to three years in prison, but also imposes up to five years in prison for promoting or supporting LGBT activities.
Despite warnings from Ghana’s finance ministry about potential economic consequences, including risks to $3.8 billion in World Bank financing, supporters continue to push for the bill’s passage.
Human rights advocates have expressed concern, saying the law puts the lives and health of LGBT individuals and human rights defenders at risk.
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