Samuel Nartey George, the lead campaigner for the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill 2021, has revealed that his advocacy has come at a significant personal cost, even before the bill is enacted into law.
As the Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram and the sponsor of the Private Members' Bill, George spoke about the challenges he has faced during an interview on Eko Sii Sen on Asempa FM on May 17, 2023.
George, a vocal legislator who has been re-elected to represent the opposition National Democratic Congress in the upcoming 2024 election, claimed that he has been unjustly placed on a money laundering list due to his advocacy. Consequently, he faces difficulties in conducting financial transactions when traveling abroad.
Despite being given an explanation for the blacklisting, George believes it is merely a cover-up. He asserts that the blacklisting, along with other negative experiences in certain countries, is a direct result of his anti-LGBTQ campaign. He shared examples of his encounters, such as being unable to open a student account at the London School of Economics and being unable to exchange currency while traveling.
When asked about his financial transactions while abroad, George explained the challenges he faces, including relying on the currency of the destination country, seeking assistance from fellow Ghanaians to exchange money, or using his bank card. He expressed frustration at the restrictions imposed on him due to the blacklisting.
Additionally, George discussed how he has been unfairly treated when traveling outside Ghana, despite holding a diplomatic passport. He recounted instances of being pulled aside, searched, and detained for extended periods, causing embarrassment and inconvenience.
Despite the sacrifices, losses, and experiences endured by him and his colleagues in advocating for the bill, George remains resolute. He expressed his determination to write a book chronicling their journey once the bill is finalized. He also shared examples of other MPs who have faced challenges, including visa rejections, and highlighted the need for transparency and fair treatment.
George emphasized that these adversities only fuel his determination to see the bill successfully passed into law. He stated that they strengthen his resolve and commitment to the cause. In his unwavering dedication, he quoted a saying from his faith and affirmed that he is fully committed to pushing the bill forward, regardless of the obstacles he encounters.
Overview of the Bill
If the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill 2021 is passed in its current form, offenders will face imprisonment for up to ten years, depending on the nature of the offense.
Certain sections of the Bill outline the penalties for same-sex individuals engaging in sexual activities. Offenders will be “liable on summary conviction to a fine of not less than seven hundred and fifty penalty units and not more than five thousand penalty units, or to a term of imprisonment of not less than three years and not more than five years, or both.”
Additionally, the Bill proposes that individuals involved in activities that “promote, support, express sympathy for, or advocate for a change of public opinion regarding an act prohibited under the Bill” will face imprisonment for a minimum of five years and a maximum of ten years.
Apart from Samuel Nartey George, several other Members of Parliament are sponsoring the bill. They include Emmanuel Bedzrah (MP, Ho West), Della Adjoa Sowah (MP, Kpando), John Ntim Fordjour (MP, Assin South), Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini (MP, Tamale North), Helen Adjoa Ntoso (MP, Krachi West), Rita Naa Odoley Sowah (MP, La Dadekotopon), and Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor (MP, South Dayi).
Sam George, who has been defending the bill, consistently argues that homosexuality is not a fundamental human right but rather a personal preference that contradicts the provisions of the 1992 Constitution.
