The US Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has issued a cautionary statement regarding the potential consequences of the Anti-LGBTQ+ law currently being deliberated in the country's Parliament.
Ambassador Palmer emphasized that the enactment of such a law could adversely affect trade and investment in Ghana.
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In a recent address to journalists in Accra, Ambassador Palmer underscored the significance of maintaining an inclusive and welcoming environment for all communities in Ghana, including the LGBTQ+ community.
She stated, “Lots of ethnic communities make Ghana strong, stable, and attractive for investments. I hope it stays that way with regard to the LGBTQ community. They should be managed to be made the colour of the money green or red if it's Ghanaian, but if it is discrimination, then that will send a signal not to [only] LGBTQ investors and exporters but to other American companies. Then Ghana will be less welcoming…so I hope it stays that welcoming.”
The proposed Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill seeks to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities, curtail the promotion and advocacy of LGBTQ+ content, and provide support for children and individuals involved in LGBTQ+ matters.
Despite the ongoing debates and controversies surrounding the legislation, the Supreme Court of Ghana dismissed a recent application in July 2023, which aimed to halt the consideration of the bill by Parliament.
The application, filed by researcher Dr. Amanda Odoi, contended that the ongoing consideration of the bill violated Article 108 of the 1992 Constitution.
Article 108 specifies that Parliament cannot deliberate on bills or motions that impose taxation or charges on public funds unless introduced by the president.
Dr. Odoi argued that the bill, in its entirety, would impose a charge on the consolidated fund and thus infringe upon the Constitution.
This legal intervention adds to the existing debates within Ghanaian society regarding the anti-LGBTQ+ bill. Stakeholders hold varying opinions on the potential implications and necessity of the proposed legislation.
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