Ghana's Supreme Court Approves Anti-LGBT+ Bill
Ghana's Supreme Court Approves Anti-LGBT+ Bill
Supreme Court Ruling: A Disturbing Milestone
Ghana's Supreme Court has approved the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill, unanimously rejecting two lawsuits challenging its constitutionality. The bill, passed by Parliament in February, prescribes prison sentences ranging from 3 to 10 years for individuals identified as LGBTQ+ members or accused of promoting the community. The court's rejection was based on procedural grounds, as the bill has yet to be signed into law by the president, rendering the legal challenges "premature."
A Strong Reaction from the LGBTQ+ Community and Activists
The decision has left the LGBTQ+ community in shock and fear. Ebenezer Peegah, a Ghanaian LGBTQ+ rights activist, voiced deep concern about the implications: “This verdict is likely to embolden those already hostile to queer individuals, exacerbating an existing climate of hatred.” The tension is heightened following a recent presidential election campaign marked by anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.
Read also : Uganda’s Anti-LGBTQ Laws Intensify Digital Harassment and Abuse, Report Reveals
Judicial Pressure Amid High Stakes
Abena Takyiwaa Manuh, a member of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development, highlighted the significant pressure faced by the court. “Although the judges are highly respected and their decision was unanimous, this ruling comes amid intense public scrutiny and threats,” she said. Despite these pressures, the judges adhered to a procedural interpretation, leaving the next steps in the president's hands.
The President Holds the Key
The bill is now headed to President Nana Akufo Addo, who must decide whether to sign it into law or veto it. So far, the outgoing president has refrained from commenting, citing the ongoing legal challenges. Critics have accused him of shirking his responsibilities, fearing potential fallout with international partners, including the World Bank.
Calls for Reconsideration and Limited Legal Options
Abena Takyiwaa Manuh and Ebenezer Peegah are urging the president to reject the bill, emphasizing his previous commitments to human rights. Meanwhile, the plaintiffs' lawyers are considering requesting a review of the ruling, though the unanimous decision by the judges makes this unlikely to succeed.
If enacted, the law could usher in a new era of restrictions for Ghana's LGBTQ+ community, intensifying calls for vigilance and international solidarity.
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