Accra, Dec 18 – Ghana’s Supreme Court has dismissed two lawsuits challenging the legality of a contentious anti-LGBTQ+ bill, removing a major obstacle for the legislation to advance.
The bill, which was unanimously passed by parliament in February, introduces harsh penalties for LGBTQ+ individuals and those promoting or supporting their rights. Same-sex relationships, already criminalized with prison terms of up to three years, would now face increased sanctions. The legislation also proposes up to five years in prison for those accused of promoting LGBTQ+ activities.
President Nana Akufo-Addo has delayed signing the bill into law, awaiting the resolution of legal challenges filed by lawyers Amanda Odoi and Richard Sky. The Supreme Court’s seven-member panel ruled that the cases were premature, as the president had not yet assented to the bill.
“Until there’s presidential assent, there is no act,” said Justice Avril Lovelace-Johnson during the televised ruling. The court dismissed both cases unanimously.
Lawyers for the plaintiffs expressed disappointment with the decision and said they would review the full judgment before deciding on further action.
The legislation has been backed by a coalition of Christian, Muslim, and traditional leaders in Ghana, who argue it aligns with the country’s cultural values. Critics, however, warn it could worsen discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Ghana’s finance ministry has cautioned that the bill could risk $3.8 billion in World Bank financing and disrupt a $3 billion International Monetary Fund loan intended to address the country’s economic crisis.
Abena Takyiwaa Manuh, a senior fellow at the Centre for Democratic Governance in Accra, criticized the court’s decision, saying it endangered the safety and rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and human rights advocates. “They can now do their worst,” she said outside the courtroom.
