Sam George, the Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram and lead advocate for the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, has voiced his growing frustration with the Supreme Court’s delay in addressing legal challenges against the bill. This piece of legislation, which aims to criminalize and regulate LGBTQ+ activities and advocacy in Ghana, has sparked heated debate and attracted significant legal opposition.
George has been a key figure in pushing for the bill, but the extended delay by the court in reaching a decision is causing concern. The MP argues that this delay is affecting the efficiency and functionality of both the legislative and executive branches of government, leaving lawmakers and officials in a state of uncertainty.
The Ningo-Prampram MP emphasized the urgency of resolving the legal challenges, given their potential to influence governance at the highest levels. “There is no matter before the Supreme Court that is more important than a determination on this matter, which stays the hands of both the legislature and the executive,” George asserted, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Sam George also referenced a previous ruling by the Supreme Court, which had direct implications for the separation of powers between the branches of government. He cited a quorum judgment supported by Justice Yoni Kulendi, expressing the need for consistency in the handling of similar cases.
The MP is now urging the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkonoo, to expedite the hearing and resolution of the legal challenges brought against the bill by Amanda Odoi and Richard Dela Sky. He believes that further delays are detrimental to the legislative process and that swift action is necessary to resolve the matter. George stressed that the Supreme Court must address these issues in line with the judgment already given by Justice Kulendi and others on the panel.
In conclusion, Sam George’s call for swift judicial action is not only about settling the legal questions surrounding the LGBTQ+ bill but also about ensuring that Ghana’s governance functions smoothly. The prolonged delay, he argues, is hampering decision-making and leaving critical questions about the bill unresolved. For George, the matter is urgent, and the country’s governance depends on a timely ruling from the Supreme Court.
