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Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, a prominent member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has raised concerns about the potential repercussions following the recent passage of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill by Parliament.
The legislation, which was approved on February 28, 2024, criminalises LGBTQ+ activities, including their promotion, advocacy, and financial support. Penalties for those found guilty range from six months to three years of imprisonment, with harsher sentences for individuals involved in promoting or sponsoring such acts.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Otchere-Darko expressed apprehensions regarding what he termed a “harsher anti-LGBTQ Bill” and emphasized the necessity for public education on its possible implications.
He called upon the media and politicians to offer balanced information to citizens, presenting both the advantages and disadvantages of the Bill becoming law. Additionally, he urged individuals who believe the legislation contradicts the Constitution to seek legal redress through the courts.
Ghana’s parliament, in which is vested the sovereign will of the people, has democratically passed a harsher anti-LGBTQ Bill. Yes, democratically! In fact the threat of being unseated for standing for the rights of gays, etc, certainly created its own culture of silence in the…
— Gabby Otchere-Darko (@GabbyDarko) March 1, 2024
While acknowledging Parliament’s decision as reflective of popular sentiment, Otchere-Darko stressed the importance of upholding Ghana’s cultural norms while advocating for tolerance and diversity.
He highlighted the resilience of Ghana’s democratic institutions and urged citizens to place trust in the democratic process, emphasizing the need to strike a balance between traditional family values and principles of tolerance and diversity.
Otchere-Darko reaffirmed his confidence in Ghana’s ability to navigate these complexities while remaining true to its cultural heritage and democratic principles.
Below is his full post:
Ghana’s parliament, in which is vested the sovereign will of the people, has democratically passed a harsher anti-LGBTQ Bill. Yes, democratically! In fact the threat of being unseated for standing for the rights of gays, etc, certainly created its own culture of silence in the House! But, it is the decision of Parliament and one which enjoys huge popular support in the country.
The world must understand that. But, Ghanaians must also understand that it comes with consequences. Choices have consequences. We expect the media and the politicians to be fair to the people by letting them know the pros and cons of this decision to impose stiffer penalties against gays, etc. We also expect those who believe the bill is constitutionally wrong to do what is right and go to court. That is democracy! Our institutions of democracy are still strong and alive.
Let’s have faith in our democracy. Let’s respect the choices we make and their consequences and believe in the process. Ghana remains a sovereign state, with cultural norms that cannot be wished away but must be respected. I still believe, though, that we can balance our traditional family values with our traditional values of tolerance and diversity. That’s the Ghanaian way. The Ghanaian culture. The Ghanaian spirit. Our history. Our DNA. That is Ghanaian.
Source: Daily Mail GH
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