Reject anti-gay bill –Prof. Gadzekpo to Akufo-Addo

The Human Rights Coalition, along with the “Big 18”, is calling on President Akufo Addo to refrain from signing the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2021. They argue that the bill violates the rights of many Ghanaians, including journalists.

During a media engagement event organized by the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Board member Prof. Audrey Gadzekpo emphasized that the bill goes against both domestic and international human rights standards. She also pointed out that it would impede journalists from carrying out their duties without fear of legal repercussions.

Prof. Gadzekpo highlighted that the bill contradicts Article 108 of the 1992 constitution, which prohibits private members’ bills that impose a financial burden on the public. She urged the president not to give his assent to the bill.

Furthermore, Prof. Gadzekpo stressed that human rights are not subject to popular opinion. Therefore, the argument that the bill should be passed due to majority support is invalid. She pointed out that Ghana’s diverse cultural and religious landscape makes it impossible to impose a single cultural value system on the entire population.

She also raised concerns about the bill infringing on the principle of separation of church and state by criminalizing behavior based on religious beliefs. Prof. Gadzekpo warned that such actions could lead to the imposition of one group’s religious views on others in society.

In conclusion, the Human Rights Coalition and the “Big 18” are urging President Akufo Addo to reject the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill to protect the rights and freedoms of all Ghanaians.