Ghana Passes Controversial Anti-LGBTQI+ Bill Amidst International Criticism
In a unanimous decision, Ghana’s parliament has approved the highly contentious Anti-LGBTQI+ bill, officially titled “The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.” Sponsored by lawmaker Sam Dzata George, the bill proposes stringent measures, including up to five years of imprisonment for offenders.
In a unanimous decision, Ghana’s parliament has approved the highly contentious Anti-LGBTQI+ bill, officially titled “The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.” Sponsored by lawmaker Sam Dzata George, the bill proposes stringent measures, including up to five years of imprisonment for offenders.
This legislation, which had its first reading on August 2, 2021, has sparked heated debate and attracted significant attention both domestically and internationally. After being considered by the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee in March 2023, it underwent subsequent readings, with the second and third readings occurring on July 5, 2023, and February 28, 2024, respectively.
Also watch Eamn comment on Kamala Harris promoting LGBTQ+ on her historic visit to Ghana.
However, amidst the passage of the bill, Ghana faces the looming threat of repercussions from the United States government. Reports indicate that the US government has issued a warning to withdraw its substantial $3.8 billion aid package to Ghana if the anti-gay bill is signed into law. This development has intensified the already charged discourse surrounding the bill, as it underscores the clash between traditional values and human rights principles on the international stage.
Critics, both within Ghana and abroad, have vehemently condemned the bill, decrying it as a violation of basic human rights and an affront to LGBTQI+ individuals. The bill has faced particularly fierce opposition from Western media outlets and diplomats, including the US ambassador to Ghana.
The passage of the Anti-LGBTQI+ bill represents a significant milestone in Ghana’s legislative landscape, reflecting the evolving dynamics of social and cultural attitudes within the country. However, it also raises fundamental questions about the intersection of cultural traditions, human rights, and international relations.
As Ghana grapples with the aftermath of this controversial decision, the global community watches closely, underscoring the importance of dialogue, understanding, and respect for diverse perspectives in navigating complex socio-political issues.
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If the question of homosexuality was central to Christain faith, one would assume Jesus addressed it directly. He never does, but “sexual immorality” in his list of evil thoughts in Matt 15,19-20 might encompass homosexuality.
Paul, however, condemns homosexuality in several letters, Rom 1,26–27; 1 Kor 6,9–11 og 1 Tim 1,9–10. Paul is an important teacher and church father, but Paul is a human being. Paul’s words are not God’s words.
While he never mentions homosexuals, Jesus scolds customs officers/tax collectors rather often. He was probably not against taxes or customs duties, but the people working in these services were known to take bribes.
In Ghana corruption has reached a level that halts the further development of society. Parliament seems fine with this. But those who are attracted to those of the same sex, and want to live accordingly, as consenting adults, are the objects of unhinged rage.
Still, in Christian tradition, homosexuality is considered a sin.
So how do we treat homosexuals?
Paul demands that homosexuals are expelled from the congregation. He does not suggest to punish them otherwise.
Jesus is very reluctant to punish sinners at all. As he famously says: – Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone.. (John 8:7).
He also says: – Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.