The United States has expressed its “deep trouble” over Ghana’s adoption of a strict anti-LGBTQ+ law that it claims compromises constitutional freedoms.
“The bill would also undermine Ghana’s economy, media, and civic spaces, as well as its valuable public health,” a statement from US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated.
“Review of the constitutionality of the bill” has been demanded.
A three-year prison sentence is the maximum penalty for anyone found guilty of identifying as LGBTQ+ under the new bill that was passed on Wednesday. Moreover, it sets a five-year maximum prison sentence for founding or supporting LGBTQ+ organizations.
The bill’s passage has drawn criticism from many groups and rights organizations.
Justify Ghana vehemently condemned “this regressive legislation.” Which seriously jeopardizes the liberties and rights of LGBTQ+ people across the nation.
If the bill is passed into law, Winnie Byanyima, executive director of UNAids, stated that it may encourage violence by Ghanaians against their fellow citizens.
According to her, it will “undermine social protection, obstruct access to life-saving services, and jeopardize Ghana’s development success.”
According to Ghana’s constitution, the law will be given to President Nana Akufo-Addo, who would then have seven days to inform the speaker of parliament of his decision on assent.
If he declines, he has 14 days to explain why, mentioning any clauses that, in his opinion, the legislature ought to reexamine.
