A High Court in Accra has fast-tracked a case concerning the President’s refusal to receive the Anti-LGBTQ bill.
This move comes after NDC MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor filed a suit demanding the President act on the bill.
Presidential Stance and Legal Challenges
The President’s office requested Parliament withhold the bill due to two injunction applications filed against it at the Supreme Court. The Attorney-General advised the President to wait for the court’s decision before taking any action.
Dafeamekpor’s Arguments
Dafeamekpor argues the President cannot block Parliament from sending passed bills. He also claims the President has a limited window (seven days) to assent to or reject a bill, with exceptions for consulting the Council of State. Finally, he challenges the President’s letter to Parliament as unconstitutional and seeks its withdrawal.
Background on the Bill
Ghana’s Parliament passed the Anti-LGBTQ bill in February, criminalizing same-sex relations and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. The bill has sparked controversy, with some Ghanaians supporting it and others, including human rights groups, raising concerns about discrimination.
Financial and International Considerations
The Finance Ministry warned the President that signing the bill could lead to a loss of over $3 billion in World Bank funding. Despite this, President Akufo-Addo reassured the international community of Ghana’s commitment to human rights while acknowledging the legal challenge to the bill.
Current Situation
The expedited court hearing will determine whether the President must receive the bill and potentially act upon it. This case is significant for both Ghanaian LGBTQ+ rights and the President’s authority regarding passed legislation.
