The United States Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has expressed worry over the implications of Ghana’s new anti-LGBTQ bill passed this week, indicating its impact on Ghana’s international reputation.
Yesterday’s passage of the anti-LGBTQ bill by Ghana’s parliament has received varying reactions from local and international entities with many expressing sadness and frustration over what they see as a threat to basic human rights.
In a signed statement on X (formerly Twitter), Palmer highlighted the diverse talents and contributions of the LGBT community towards human development.
She emphasized that the bill not only stripped away the rights of LGBTQ members but also undermined the freedom cherished by all Ghanaians, including freedom of speech, assembly and the press.
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“I am saddened because some of the smartest, most creative, most decent people I know are LGBT. The bill Parliament passed takes away not only their basic human rights but those of all Ghanaians because it undermines their constitutional rights to freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and freedom of the press,” the tweet said.
She indicated further that the bill’s passage could damage Ghana’s global reputation, and deter foreign investment and tourism which will ultimately affect the country’s economic growth and prosperity.
“It will be bad for public order and public health. If enacted, it will also hurt Ghana’s international reputation and Ghana’s economy, “ parts of the tweet indicated.
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Ghana’s Parliament Passes ‘Extreme’ Anti-LGBTQ Bill
For three years, the parliament of Ghana, spearheaded by the minority, notably the member of parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Samuel George has been debating and reviewing the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
Its passage yesterday has raised many worries about its potential negative impacts on public order and public health. Among others, some fear that enforcing such legislation could lead to increased discrimination and stigma, ultimately harming the well-being of individuals and communities.
Furthermore, with several discussions focused on how bills like this may have a broader impact on the economic and social development of African countries, The Accra TImes has listed economic areas that could be impacted in a separate report.