Catholic Bishops join chorus urging Akufo-Addo to sign Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

Nov 16, 2024 - 22:02

Nov 16, 2024 - 22:11

Catholic Bishops join chorus urging Akufo-Addo to sign Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

Obuasi, Ghana - Nov 16, 2024 - Ghana's Catholic Bishops has called on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to sign the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill into law without further delay.

The bill, commonly known as the Anti-Gay Bill, has sparked intense debate across the country, with proponents arguing it's essential to preserve traditional family values and opponents claiming it infringes on human rights.

During the Conference’s Annual Plenary Assembly, held from November 8 to 16, 2024, at the Pope John Paul II Formation and Training Centre in Ofoase Kokoben, Diocese of Obuasi, Ashanti Region,the Bishops emphasized that their support for the bill stems from their commitment to upholding the sanctity of the family and traditional values rooted in cultural and Christian heritage.

They believe the bill aligns with the moral convictions of most Ghanaians and see no justification for the President's delayed action.

“We urge the President to give his assent to this Bill, which we believe aligns with the moral convictions of almost all Ghanaians. We see no justification for the President’s delayed action on the matter.

“In fact, we consider the reasons proffered for the delay as mere excuses. This is not a call for discrimination but for the preservation of our moral fabric and the protection of the traditional marriage and family as the foundation of our society.”

The Bishops expressed their support for the bill, emphasizing that it reflects their commitment to the sanctity of the family and upholding traditional values rooted in cultural and Christian heritage.

“The Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill has ignited passionate discussions across the country. As shepherds of the Church, we support the bill as it reflects our commitment to the sanctity of the family and the upholding of traditional values rooted in our cultural and Christian heritage.”

Key Points:

- The Bill's Purpose: To protect traditional marriage and family as the foundation of Ghanaian society.
- The Bishops' Stance: Support for the bill, citing alignment with moral convictions and cultural values.
- Controversy Surrounding the Bill: Proponents argue it preserves family values, while opponents claim it infringes on human rights.
- Current Status: Passed by Parliament on February 28, 2024, but awaiting Presidential assent and resolution of Supreme Court challenges.

The President's decision has been stalled due to ongoing Supreme Court cases challenging the bill's constitutionality.

Source: Florence Kyei/ Lead News Online