THE contentious debate surrounding Ghana’s anti-LGBT bill intensifies as a lawmaker proposes a re-evaluation of punitive measures, advocating for alternative sentencing for gay sex offenses. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, a prominent member of the ruling party, voiced concerns about the potential consequences of incarceration within the prison system.
Afenyo-Markin expressed his apprehensions on Thursday, stating, ‘Imprisoning people for LGBT offenses would encourage sodomy in prisons and worsen homosexuality and its promotion.’ His plea for parliamentary consideration of alternative sentencing underscores the complexities surrounding the proposed legislation, which aims to impose stringent penalties on individuals involved in promoting LGBT rights.
‘This troubled conditions could seriously undermine the credibility of the ballot by sowing the seeds of pre- and post-electoral disputes,’ he said, highlighting the broader implications of the bill on Ghana’s social fabric.
The bill, sponsored by a coalition of religious and traditional leaders, seeks to criminalise various aspects of the LGBTQ+ community, including advocating for their rights, with penalties of up to 10 years in prison.
However, Afenyo-Markin’s call for reform resonated with some members of parliament (MPs), who acknowledged the need for a more nuanced approach. Despite opposition from some quarters, parliament voted to proceed with the bill’s further reading, signalling ongoing deliberations over its provisions.
In a motion to amend aspects of the legislation, Afenyo-Markin emphasised, ‘I am all for the bill, but it must be reform-minded and humane.’ His plea reflects a broader sentiment among advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and human rights organisations, who have raised concerns about the potential for abuse and discrimination under the proposed law.
President Nana Akufo-Addo’s stance on the bill remains ambiguous. While he has acknowledged his involvement in the legislative process, he has refrained from indicating whether he will endorse the bill into law. The bill’s proponents aim to expedite its passage by March, despite condemnation from international bodies such as the United Nations.
The proposed legislation in Ghana parallels similar controversial laws enacted elsewhere in Africa, such as Uganda’s anti-LGBT law, which has faced widespread condemnation for its draconian measures. International organisations, including the World Bank, have warned of the detrimental effects of such laws on human rights and social cohesion.
(with Reuters)