Don’t assent to anti-gay bill – Finance Ministry to Akufo-Addo
The Ministry of Finance has advised President Akufo-Addo to desist from signing the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill (anti-LGBTQ+) by Parliament into law.
The bill, passed on Wednesday (28 February) is set to criminalise the promotion, advocacy, funding and acts of homosexuality.
In a brief on the immediate impact of the bill on the 2024 Budget on Monday (4 March), the Finance Ministry warned such action could lead to severe repercussions on the country’s financial support from international organisations like the World Bank and IMF.
“The Presidency may have a structured engagement with local conservative forces such as religious bodies and faith-based organisations to communicate the economic implications of the passage of the ‘Anti-LGBTQ’ Bill and to build a stronger coalition and a framework for supporting key development initiative that is likely to be affected.”
“…the president may have to defer assenting to the Bill until the court rules on the legal issues tabled by key national stakeholders (CSOs and CHRAJ).”
“The passage of the new bill calls for fortifying local financial systems, strengthening African financial institutions as well as our development journey in partnership with other countries. In line with the Ghana Beyond Aid Agenda, Ghana can navigate the complexities of international relations and emerge with a robust, resilient economy with Ghanaian ownership of the commanding heights of the economy,” it said.
