The Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Richard Ahiagbah, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to fulfill his campaign pledge by signing the contentious Anti-Gay Bill into law. Mr. Ahiagbah’s remarks come in response to recent statements by President Mahama, suggesting that a government-sponsored bill would be a more effective approach than the existing Private Member’s Bill.
President Mahama, during a meeting with the Bishops on Tuesday, January 14, emphasized the need for broader consultation and national consensus on the issue. He argued that a government-sponsored bill would allow for these engagements, fostering unity and inclusivity in addressing the sensitive subject. The President also highlighted the importance of revising school curriculums to incorporate moral and cultural teachings aimed at instilling Ghanaian and African values in children.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, January 16, Mr. Ahiagbah accused President Mahama of backtracking on his commitment to sign the LGBTQ+ Bill in its current form. He referenced the President’s campaign promise during the 2024 general elections, where Mahama assured Ghanaians that he would approve the bill as part of his administration’s dedication to protecting Ghanaian cultural values.
“H.E. John Mahama is running away from signing the LGBTQ+ Bill after promising to do so in its current form. Elections have consequences, and H.E. Mahama must not shift the goalpost. Sign the bill as you have pledged to Ghanaians… #Ghana @JDMahama @NJOAgyemang,” Mr. Ahiagbah wrote.
The contentious Anti-Gay Bill, which has been at the center of national and international debate, seeks to criminalize all activities associated with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI) advocacy. If passed into law, the bill would impose severe penalties on individuals promoting, funding, or providing indirect support for LGBTQI-related activities.
Supporters of the bill argue that it is a necessary step to protect the moral fabric and cultural heritage of Ghana, which they claim is being threatened by foreign ideologies. They believe the bill will safeguard the sanctity of Ghanaian family values and ensure that traditional norms are preserved for future generations. Many proponents view the legislation as a defense against what they describe as a growing attempt to impose Western values on African societies.
Opponents, however, including prominent human rights organizations, have expressed strong opposition to the bill, labeling it a gross violation of fundamental human rights. Critics argue that the proposed legislation infringes on freedoms of expression, association, and equality under the law. They warn that its passage could lead to increased stigmatization, discrimination, and persecution of marginalized groups, further alienating Ghana from the global community.
The controversy surrounding the bill has drawn widespread attention, with many calling on the government to strike a balance between upholding cultural values and respecting international human rights obligations. While some countries have condemned the proposed legislation, others have urged Ghana to consider a more inclusive approach to addressing LGBTQI issues, advocating for dialogue and education rather than punitive measures.
Mr. Ahiagbah’s call for President Mahama to sign the bill without further delay underscores the political implications of the matter. The NPP Communications Director warned that failing to fulfill such a significant campaign promise could erode public trust in the President’s leadership. He argued that elections come with consequences, and it is essential for elected leaders to remain accountable to their commitments.
The debate over the Anti-Gay Bill has also sparked discussions about the role of religion in shaping Ghanaian politics and society. Religious leaders across the country have been vocal in their support for the bill, urging the government to take decisive action to protect traditional values. Many have framed the issue as a moral battle, with the fate of Ghana’s cultural identity hanging in the balance.
Meanwhile, human rights advocates continue to push back against what they perceive as an oppressive and regressive piece of legislation. They have urged lawmakers to consider the potential consequences of passing the bill, including the impact on Ghana’s international reputation and its ability to attract foreign investment and partnerships.
The ongoing controversy highlights the complexities of navigating cultural, political, and human rights issues in a rapidly changing global landscape. For Ghana, the debate over the Anti-Gay Bill represents a crossroads, with significant implications for its identity, governance, and international relations.
As the discussions continue, many Ghanaians are watching closely to see how President Mahama and his administration will handle this sensitive matter. While the President has emphasized the importance of consultation and consensus, critics argue that such an approach could delay action on a critical issue that has already generated significant public interest.
The NPP, on the other hand, appears determined to hold the President accountable for his campaign promise, using the debate over the bill as a platform to highlight perceived inconsistencies in the Mahama administration’s leadership. For Mr. Ahiagbah and his party, the issue is not just about policy but also about political integrity and the trustworthiness of the President’s commitments to the Ghanaian people.
In the coming weeks, the nation will likely witness intensified advocacy from both sides of the debate. As stakeholders push for their respective agendas, the question remains whether Ghana can find a path forward that respects its cultural values while upholding its commitment to human rights and inclusivity.
For now, the spotlight remains on President Mahama, who must navigate this contentious issue with caution and decisiveness.
