 of exploiting the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Law—popularly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill—for political gain.){kind=link}
The Minority in Parliament has accused the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) of exploiting the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Law—popularly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill—for political gain.
Addressing a press conference in Parliament, Minority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin claimed the NDC government has retreated from its earlier strong stance on the controversial legislation since assuming office.
According to him, the NDC, while in opposition, strongly advocated the passage of the law, arguing it was necessary to protect Ghana’s cultural and religious values by criminalising LGBTQ+ activities.
“They told the whole world there was a need to pass an anti-LGBT law. They engaged the streets of Accra, our villages, the media, religious leaders, and traditional rulers,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin said. “One year down the line, they’ve been in office and have gone quiet on this anti-LGBT law.”
The Minority Leader further raised concerns about what he described as the promotion of sexual rights within the national education curriculum. He criticised the government’s explanation that the inclusion was a “mistake” or “an anomaly,” despite official documents being printed, circulated, and endorsed by the sector minister.
“We do not accept this,” he stressed. “We hold the view that the NDC used the anti-LGBT law only for power, and now that they are facing reality, they want to find a way of running away from it. We will insist that they act according to their own principles.”
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill was unanimously passed by Parliament on February 28, 2024. The legislation criminalises LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, prescribing prison sentences of six months to three years for individuals, and three to five years for promoters or sponsors.
The Minority says it will continue to hold the government accountable to its stated commitments on the law, as public debate around its implementation and broader human rights implications persists.