Ghana's anti-LGBTQ+ bill faces scrutiny before approval, Mahama says

Ghana's Legislative Developments on LGBTQ+ Issues

Parliament in Ghana passed a bill on Friday that proposes up to three years imprisonment for identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer, along with a duty to report prohibited acts to police. President John Mahama has stated that the measure will undergo scrutiny before any official approval, noting it originated as a private members' motion rather than a government bill.

President John Mahama's Position at Chatham House

Speaking in London at Chatham House, President John Mahama explained that his legal council and attorney general would examine the bill to ensure everything is in order. He added that any problems could lead to referral to the Council of State, reflecting a measured approach to legislation that builds on colonial-era bans on same-sex relationships.

Historical Background and External Pressures

This marks the second time Ghanaian MPs have backed such legislation. A similar bill was introduced in August 2021 after an LGBTQ+ resources centre was shut down in Accra. President John Mahama's predecessor, Nana Akufo-Addo, did not give assent before leaving office. Since taking power last year, President John Mahama has faced pressure from religious leaders to strengthen anti-gay measures.

Key Provisions and Exemptions in the Current Bill

The current version exempts punishment for legal, healthcare and media professionals. However, anyone identified as an ally supporting LGBTQ+ people could still face a prison sentence. Human Rights Watch has recommended that the bill be abandoned due to its broad implications.

Senegal's Parallel Legislation and Broader West African Context

Senegal's parliament approved similar legislation in March that prescribes a maximum prison term of 10 years for sexual acts by same-sex couples and criminalises the promotion of homosexuality. These developments in Ghana and Senegal illustrate a regional pattern in West Africa, where cultural traditions intersect with modern legal frameworks influenced by both colonial legacies and contemporary political dynamics.

Human Rights and Cultural Dimensions Across the Region

The bills raise important questions about individual dignity and community values in societies that have long balanced respect for personal identity with collective cultural norms. Rights groups continue to highlight concerns over enforcement and social cohesion, urging careful consideration of how such laws affect daily life for citizens in Ghana, Senegal and neighbouring countries like Uganda, which introduced a death penalty for certain same-sex acts in 2023.