Ghana’s Supreme Court Rejects Bids to Overturn Controversial LGBTQ Bill
Ghana’s LGBTQ Rights Under Scrutiny
Ghana’s Supreme Court has rejected two bids to overturn a controversial piece of legislation that severely restricts LGBTQ rights. The Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill was approved by lawmakers in February, sparking widespread international condemnation.
Background on the Bill
The proposed legislation stipulates jail terms of six months to three years for engaging in LGBTQ sex. The bill only enters into law after being ratified by the outgoing president, Nana Akufo-Addo, who has not yet announced his decision.
Court Ruling
The Supreme Court’s seven-member panel, led by Judge Avril Lovelace-Johnson, delivered its judgement, stating that it would be premature for the court to intervene. "It will be premature for this court to exercise its interpretive and enforcement jurisdiction to intervene. Consequently, the action fails," she said. "Until there is presidential assent to the bill, there is no act of which the Supreme Court will use its supervisory jurisdiction to overturn," she added.
International Reaction
The bill has sparked criticism from several countries, including the US, as well as concern from Ghana’s finance ministry, which warned of a risk of losing billions of dollars in World Bank funding. The international community has been vocal in its opposition to the bill, with many countries expressing concern over the potential human rights implications.
Filing of Cases
The court’s ruling followed cases filed by Ghanaian broadcaster Richard Dela-Sky, who challenged the constitutionality of the bill, and university researcher Amanda Odoi. The cases were aimed at challenging the constitutionality of the bill and seeking to have it declared invalid.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s decision is seen as a blow to LGBTQ rights in Ghana, which has a conservative and traditional society. The bill’s passage and the court’s rejection of the bids to overturn it have sparked concerns over the potential impact on the country’s human rights record.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill?
A: The bill is a piece of legislation that restricts LGBTQ rights in Ghana, stipulating jail terms of six months to three years for engaging in LGBTQ sex.
Q: When was the bill approved?
A: The bill was approved by lawmakers in February.
Q: What is the current status of the bill?
A: The bill is pending ratification by the outgoing president, Nana Akufo-Addo, who has not yet announced his decision.
Q: What is the reaction from the international community?
A: The international community has been vocal in its opposition to the bill, with many countries expressing concern over the potential human rights implications.