The Supreme Court of Ghana is preparing to issue its ruling on two high-profile lawsuits challenging the constitutionality of the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, widely known as the anti-gay bill.
This ruling comes after months of intense public debate and political controversy surrounding the proposed legislation, which aims to criminalize activities associated with LGBTQ+ advocacy. If passed, the bill would impose severe penalties on individuals who promote or fund pro-LGBTQ+ initiatives. It would also hold accountable those who provide indirect support to such causes.
Supporters of the bill argue that it is crucial to safeguarding Ghanaian cultural and family values, which they believe are under threat from foreign ideologies. “The bill is essential for preserving our moral and cultural integrity,” said a proponent of the bill, emphasizing the need to protect traditional values.
On the other hand, critics contend that the bill represents a direct violation of fundamental human rights, including freedoms of expression, association, and equality before the law. “This bill undermines basic human rights and could lead to discrimination against vulnerable groups,” one opponent stated.
The legal challenges against the bill were brought by journalist and lawyer Richard Dela Sky and equality advocate Amanda Odioi. The plaintiffs argue that Parliament failed to meet the quorum requirements outlined in Articles 102 and 104 of the Constitution during the passage of the bill. They contend that this procedural flaw renders the legislative process unconstitutional and the bill itself invalid.
