Ghana’s ruling party’s presidential candidate, Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, declared his opposition to homosexuality during prayers marking the end of Ramadan. He said he was opposed to “the practice of homosexuality”.
He pledged to maintain this stance if elected in December, aligning with cultural and societal norms that frown upon homosexuality in Ghana.
He said, “It is important to note that our cultural and societal norms and values as Ghanaians frown on the practice of homosexuality. All the major religious traditions in Ghana are opposed to this practice and I stand opposed to it now and I will stand opposed to it as president”.
Former president John Dramani Mahama, echoed similar sentiments in January.
Their beliefs will appeal to many in the culturally conservative West African country, where gay sex is already punishable by up to three years in prison and LGBT individuals are constantly harassed and abused.
Bawumia’s comments come amid pressure on President Nana Akufo-Addo to sign into law a bill that intensifies suppression of LGBT rights.
Activists like Angel Maxine condemned Bawumia’s stance as dangerous and homophobic.
In February, parliament unanimously passed a bill that will intensify the suppression of LGBT rights and punish those promoting lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender identities.
The bill’s supporters seek its promulgation despite warnings that it could jeopardise World Bank financing and derail an International Monetary Fund loan package.
Should the bill be enacted, individuals convicted of promoting, sponsoring, or supporting LGBTQ activities could be sentenced to up to five years in prison.
Melissa Enoch
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