John Dramani Mahama Calls on President Akufo-Addo to Sign Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill Before Leaving Office

Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has urged President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to sign the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill into law before his term comes to an end. Speaking at a public forum on Tuesday, Mahama emphasized the importance of the legislation in upholding Ghana’s cultural values and societal norms.

The Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill 2021, often referred to as the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, seeks to criminalize the promotion, advocacy, and practice of LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana. The bill has garnered widespread support among Ghanaians but has also sparked intense debate locally and internationally regarding human rights and freedom of expression.

Mahama’s comments come amid mounting public pressure on Akufo-Addo’s administration to take a definitive stance on the bill. Supporters argue that it reflects Ghana’s moral fabric, while critics caution against potential violations of human rights and international backlash.

The government has yet to make a final decision on the bill, but Mahama’s call highlights the growing urgency among proponents to see it signed into law before the current administration exits.

President Akufo-Addo has not yet responded to Mahama’s statement. Political analysts suggest that the handling of the bill could have significant implications for Ghana’s global image and future diplomatic relations.