A controversial bill that seeks to impose some of the strictest restrictions on LGBT rights in Africa has been resubmitted by a group of 10 MPs in Ghana. The bill prescribes a three-year jail term for individuals who identify as gay, and a five to 10-year jail term for those who promote or advocate for the same. The legislation, which was passed by parliament last year, was not signed into law by the former president, Akufo Addo, due to legal challenges. However, it has been widely condemned by both local and international human rights groups, with some describing it as draconian.

The original bill expired at the end of the previous parliament, and it remains unclear whether the speaker of the new parliament will admit the bill for consideration. Gay sex is already punishable by up to three years in prison in the conservative West African country. President John Dramani Mahama has stated that he would prefer the bill to be state-sponsored, ensuring broader support and consultation. Supporters of the bill argue that it would help preserve Ghanaian culture and family values, while rights groups have criticized the legislation as draconian and inconsistent with Ghana’s long-standing tradition of peace, tolerance, and hospitality.

Reintroduction of the bill is disheartening and difficult to process for LGBT activists, but they remain determined to continue their activism. The impact on Ghana’s economy is also a significant concern, as the country’s former finance minister has warned that passing the bill could result in loss of development funding from the World Bank and affect its IMF support program. However, an opposition lawmaker has expressed confidence in the global political climate due to the conservative values demonstrated by US President Donald Trump. The bill was first introduced to parliament in 2021, but has faced various delays.

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdjy91gr48lo