Proponents of the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values bill say they are prepared to face off in court with the Coalition of 18 Civil Society Groups, who are considering legal action if President Akufo-Addo signs the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law.
The Coalition, also known as the ‘Big 18’, kicked against the legislation, arguing that it infringes on Ghana’s diverse cultural and religious landscape.
The bill aims to criminalize LGBTQI+ activities in Ghana, with penalties of up to 3 years in jail for individuals and 5 years for promoters of such activities.
The anti-LGBTQ+ bill was unanimously passed by Parliament on February 28, after nearly three years of deliberation.
It imposes a prison sentence of up to three years for anyone convicted of identifying as LGBTQ+. It also imposes a maximum five-year jail term for forming or funding LGBTQ+ groups.
MPs frustrated attempts to replace prison sentences with community service and counselling.
Executive secretary of the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values bill Lawyer Foh Amoani said,
they are prepared to face off in court with Coalition of 18 civil society groups who are considering legal action if President Akufo-Addo signs the Anti-LGBTQ bill in law.
