Are You Involved In LGBT Activities? – MP Asked

Yaa Titi Okrah, a broadcaster, is kindly asking Dickson Adomako Kissi, a lawmaker from Anyaa Sowutuom, not to criticize LGBTQ+ issues outside of Ghana. She wonders if the lawmaker himself is involved in such practices.

During a panel discussion on GTV, the MP expressed the need for Speaker Bagbin to be cautious with his statements when abroad, as his words reflect the entire country. The MP suggested that the Speaker could deliver the same message using different tones and language to avoid damaging international relations.

The MP is concerned that the Speaker's stance and manner of expression could hinder Ghana's ability to receive assistance from the international community, including the IMF bailout.

In response to the MP's remarks, Iron Lady, expressing her worry, questions why the MP wants to dictate what the Speaker can or cannot say. She insinuates that the NPP government is desperate for a bailout at any cost. Iron Lady then asks if the MP is involved in promoting LGBTQ+ rights.

Speaker Bagbin of Ghana's Parliament reaffirmed his opposition to LGBTQ+ despite pressure and comments from the Western world advocating for the recognition and promotion of LGBTQ+ orientations.

The Speaker emphasized that Ghana's constitution, which is rooted in customs and conventions, rejects such practices. He stated that he, as the Speaker, will not preside over a Legislature that passes a law allowing LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana.

These remarks were made during Speaker Bagbin's visit to the British House of Lords and Commons in the United Kingdom, where the LGBTQ+ issue became a prominent topic.

Unlike President Akufo-Addo, who was not definitive during US Vice President Kamala Harris' visit to Ghana, Speaker Bagbin asserted that the country's constitution would guide the Legislature's actions.

Bagbin emphasized that threats and boycotts from donor countries and influential global institutions would not solve any challenges. He advocated for engagement and understanding to address issues rather than resorting to threats.

The Speaker further expressed the urgent need for legislation concerning LGBTQ+ matters in Ghana. He acknowledged the human rights provisions in Ghana's constitution and warned that any legislation conflicting with these rights would face potential legal challenges.

Regarding the President's role in the bill, the Speaker emphasized that Ghana's Parliament has the authority and capability to legislate on the subject. He stated that the executive should not interfere with the legislative process, as the President's role is to approve bills submitted by Parliament. However, the final legislative power lies with the legislature, not the executive. Bagbin emphasized that Ghana's democracy is based on the rule of law, not the rule of one individual.

Moreover, the Speaker highlighted that the bill focuses on promoting and protecting fundamental human rights and freedoms, as well as ensuring the healthcare and welfare of Ghanaians, particularly those whose sexual orientation affects their well-being.

The legislature has undertaken extensive consultations for the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. The select committee responsible for the bill has engaged in consultations in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, the European Union, and Canada, among other countries, to gain a deeper understanding of the issues involved.

Additionally, the committee has received and considered approximately 400 memoranda on the issue. They have also met with advocacy groups, professional associations, traditional leaders, civil society groups, and religious leaders. The approach taken with this bill has been to consider global perspectives while implementing local actions.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Lc1nup08fCw&feature=share