Amnesty International-Ghana, a human rights organization, strongly opposes the ongoing efforts by Members of Parliament to pass the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, expressing concerns about its potential impact on individuals who identify as part of minority groups. The organization believes that the bill requires further amendments to address these concerns.
The Promotion of Proper Sexual Human Rights and the Ghanaian Family Values Bill 2021, which seeks to criminalize LGBTQ+ practices and advocacy, was unanimously passed by all 275 MPs during a debate on July 5. However, Amnesty International-Ghana maintains its stance against the bill, arguing that it unjustly targets individuals based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Genevieve Partington, the Country Director for Amnesty International-Ghana, highlighted some of the concerns regarding the bill. She questioned how being an ally of the LGBTQ+ community or the private activities of consenting adults in their own bedrooms would affect the lives of others. Partington emphasized that such matters should not warrant the criminalization or persecution of individuals.
On the other hand, the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee of Parliament has recommended the passage of the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2021. Despite acknowledging significant human rights concerns, the Committee informed the House that it had sought the Attorney General’s opinion and made amendments based on it. The Committee claimed that the majority of Ghanaians support the legislation.
In summary, Amnesty International-Ghana opposes the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill being considered by Members of Parliament, arguing that it needs further amendments to protect the rights of individuals. The organization is concerned about the potential impact of the bill on minority groups. Meanwhile, the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee of Parliament has recommended the bill’s passage, citing public support and taking into account the advice of the Attorney General.
Source – myjoyonline.com
