Ghanaian Journalists Urge President Akufo-Addo to Assent to Anti-LGBTQ+ Act

Accra, Ghana – December 18, 2024

Journalists Against LGBTQ+ – Ghana are calling on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to promptly assent to the Anti-LGBTQ+ Act. This urging follows the Supreme Court’s unanimous decision to dismiss Richard Dela Sky’s petition challenging the constitutionality of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.

The Anti-LGBTQ+ Act, passed by Ghana’s Parliament on February 28, 2024, aims to promote proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values. The bill has been a subject of controversy, with human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, condemning it as “draconian” and “deeply disappointing” ¹.

Despite the backlash, Journalists Against LGBTQ+ – Ghana believe the Supreme Court’s ruling has paved the way for President Akufo-Addo’s assent. The President had previously stated that he would sign the bill if the majority of Ghanaians wanted him to do so.

The Anti-LGBTQ+ Act has far-reaching implications, including prison sentences for individuals who engage in LGBTQ+ activities or promote LGBTQ+ rights. The bill also poses a threat to online freedom of expression, with tech giants facing pressure to suppress content related to LGBTQ+ issues ².

Journalists Against LGBTQ+ – Ghana argue that the Anti-LGBTQ+ Act is essential for protecting the rights and dignity of all Ghanaians, particularly children and families. The group is urging President Akufo-Addo to take prompt action and assent to the bill, ensuring Ghana continues to uphold the highest moral standards.

In a statement, Isaac Boamah Darko, Convenor of Journalists Against LGBTQ+ – Ghana, emphasized, “Mr. President, now that the Supreme Court has ruled, the ball is in your court. We urge you not to fail Ghanaians. Assent to this Act and redeem your image after the recent election.”