Members of Parliament from the Minority side have expressed strong opposition to the Finance Ministry’s advice to President Akufo-Addo, urging him not to sign the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law.
The bill, expected to reach the President’s desk soon, has sparked heated debate, with the Finance Ministry warning of potential financial losses amounting to billions of dollars if the bill is enacted.
Alhassan Bashir Alhassan Fuseini, the Member of Parliament for Sagnarigu, called on Ghanaians to mobilize and protest against external pressures aimed at influencing the country’s legislative process. He emphasized the importance of upholding Ghana’s cultural values and sovereignty, urging citizens to defend their independence from foreign interference.
Highlighting the European Court of Human Rights’ stance on LGBTQ rights, Mr. Fuseini argued that democratic principles should not override national laws and cultural norms. He questioned the selective imposition of Western values on countries like Ghana and emphasized the need to resist external influences.
Alhassan Suhuyini, the MP for Tamale North, echoed similar sentiments, criticizing the focus on potential financial losses rather than the preservation of Ghanaian values. He highlighted examples of countries with stricter laws on LGBTQ rights that have maintained relationships with international organizations without facing significant repercussions.
Yusif Sulemana, the MP for Bole-Bamboi, expressed disappointment in Finance Minister Dr. Amin Mohammed, accusing him of prioritizing financial considerations over moral values. He criticized the perceived lack of concern for the moral well-being of the country and called for a unified stance against external pressures.
Mr. Sulemana also revealed plans to challenge the bill in court if it is signed into law, emphasizing the need for moral integrity and resilience in the face of foreign influence. He called on Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to publicly address the LGBTQ issue and urged citizens to prioritize national values over foreign aid considerations.
Overall, these MPs from the Minority side are staunchly opposed to external interference in Ghana’s legislative process and are calling for collective action to uphold the country’s cultural values and independence.
