The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva, has underscored the significance of inclusivity following the passing of Ghana’s anti-gay bill by Parliament.
During an interview on with Bernard Avle, Georgieva emphasized the importance of ensuring all Ghanaians can actively participate in the country’s development.
She acknowledged the legal challenges to the bill in Ghana’s courts, stating, “All I can say is that a more inclusive society, is a more successful society. You want Ghana to flourish, make it so that everybody can contribute to the fullest of this country.”
On February 28, 2024, Parliament approved the bill criminalizing LGBTQ+ activities, promotion, advocacy, and funding, with penalties including jail terms of 6 months to 3 years for offenders and 3 to 5 years for those promoting or sponsoring such acts.
However, in a letter dated March 18, the Office of the President requested Parliament to withhold sending the bill to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for assent.
This request came as two applications for interlocutory injunctions were filed before the Supreme Court, seeking to prevent Parliament from sending the bill to the President and to restrain the President from assenting to it until the matter is fully resolved.
In a statement signed by Nana Bediatuo Asante, the Secretary to the President, the office revealed that the Attorney-General had informed the President of being served with both applications as of March 18, 2024.
