The United States Embassy has stated that a new law in Ghana criminalizing same-sex relations violates human rights and calls for Parliament to reconsider.
The new law was passed by the Ghanaian Parliament on February 28, 2024, stipulating that individuals in the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana could face up to three years in prison.
It also prohibits anyone from supporting or advocating for the LGBTQ+ community, imposing a five-year prison sentence.
After the law was passed, the US Department of State issued a statement condemning it as well as calling for its repeal.
The Department stated that the law suppresses general life, freedom of expression, media freedom, democracy, and the economy in Ghana.
Religious groups in Ghana also support this law, citing the preservation of culture and national identity.
A member of the Ghanaian Parliament told Voice of America that the law they passed reflects the values of Ghana’s progress and development, as outlined in Ghana’s Constitution.
Following its passage in Parliament, the law will be sent to President Nana Akufo-Addo for final approval within fourteen days, as prescribed by Ghana’s Constitution.
