Ghanaian activist and musician, Wanlov the Kubolor, has expressed his views on the recent decision by the Ghanaian Parliament to approve a bill imposing strict penalties for individuals involved in LGBTQ+ activities, whether as participants or advocates.
Under the new legislation, individuals engaging in LGBTQ+ activities could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years, while those promoting, sponsoring, or supporting such activities could be sentenced to three to five years behind bars.
The bill, purportedly designed to safeguard human sexual rights and traditional family values, found support from MP Sam Nartey George, who highlighted public concerns regarding the advocacy and promotion of LGBTQ+ rights.
Taking to his social media platform, Wanlov the Kubolor, a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, criticized the bill and its proponents, emphasizing his disagreement with the stance taken by the Parliament of Ghana.
He posted, “future generations will be more disgusted with our era than any other.”
ABOUT THE BILL:
The proposed anti-LGBTQ+ bill is undergoing further revisions by a parliamentary committee before potentially becoming law.
Human rights organizations caution that if the bill is enacted in its current form, it could result in the persecution and harassment of sexual minorities, their allies, and supporters. Additionally, they could be compelled to report their activities to authorities.
The legislation would criminalize being LGBTQ+, engaging in same-sex relationships or activities, and planning to marry someone who has undergone gender-affirming surgery, with penalties of up to five years in prison.
Furthermore, the bill addresses “gross indecency in public,” making any public display of affection between individuals of the same sex or individuals who identify with a gender different from their sex, or those who have undergone gender-affirming surgery, illegal.
Additionally, the bill prohibits “cross-dressing,” allowing prosecution of individuals who dress in a manner inconsistent with their biological sex.
