Sign anti-gay bill or risk elections –Catholic Bishops Conference to Akufo-Addo

The Catholic Bishops Conference has warned the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that they may face consequences in the upcoming election if President Akufo-Addo does not sign the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law.

Despite concerns raised by the Finance Ministry about the possible loss of GHS3.8 billion in World Bank funding, the Bishops are firm in their stance that the bill must be enacted.

The Ministry outlined in a 5-page document the potential loss of US$600 million in budget support and US$250 million for the Financial Stability Fund in 2024. They also highlighted the projected loss of US$3.8 billion in World Bank financing over the next six years if the bill is signed into law.

The Bishops maintain that they will continue to speak out against LGBTQ+ activities, even if there are concerns about the imprisonment of suspects. They emphasize the importance of standing against what they believe to be wrong, despite the potential consequences for the President and his party in the elections.

The Finance Ministry is urging the President to engage with stakeholders, including faith-based organizations, to communicate the implications of the bill. They also suggest effective engagement with conservative countries such as Arab countries and China to help bridge any potential financing gaps that may arise from enacting the bill.