Ghana’s Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the country’s contentious anti-LGBTQ bill, dismissing two legal challenges to its legality.
The bill, which was passed by parliament in February, imposes harsher penalties for LGBTQ+ activities and advocacy.
Truthlive news gathered that under the proposed law, individuals engaging in LGBTQ+ advocacy or campaigns aimed at children could face up to 10 years in prison. It also prescribes a five-year sentence for those who promote or support LGBTQ+ activities. The public is encouraged to report members of the queer community to authorities.
Critics, including Western governments and human rights organizations, have labeled the legislation as “draconian” and a severe violation of human rights.
Amanda Odoi, a researcher, and Richard Dela-Sky, a journalist, filed separate cases to challenge the bill. However, the Supreme Court dismissed their lawsuits, with Judge Avril Lovelace-Johnson stating that the cases were premature as the bill has not yet received presidential assent. “Until there’s presidential assent, there is no act,” she said during a televised ruling.
President Nana Akufo-Addo, whose term ends in January, has not confirmed whether he will sign the bill into law, saying he would consider the will of the Ghanaian people. His hesitancy has been interpreted as an effort to gauge public opinion while awaiting the court’s decision.
Meanwhile, President-elect John Mahama has expressed his support for the bill, suggesting it could become law after Akufo-Addo’s tenure.