LGBT people in Ghana could face jail – law gained support
Ghana's parliament has voted in favor of a new law that severely restricts the rights of LGBTQ people. "Deliberately promoting, sponsoring or supporting LGBTQ+ activities" can result in a prison sentence of up to five years, writes a series of international media.
- It feels like a burden has been lifted from me, says politician Sam George, who voted yes to the law.
The development is condemned by the United Nations, the United States and several human rights organizations, but according to The Guardian, the law has great support in Ghana. Historically, the West African nation has stood behind various human rights more clearly than many other African countries, AP writes.
Before the law is formally passed, the president must approve it. Assessors believe it will be delayed until after the elections in December.
.........................................
The law receives strong criticism: "Threatens everyone's rights"
Don't sign the law. The UN and a number of human rights organizations are sending that call to Ghana's President Nana Akufo-Addo after parliament voted through a law that severely restricts the rights of LGBTQ people.
Big 18, an umbrella organization that brings together lawyers and activists in Ghana, condemns the development.
- You cannot criminalize a person's identity and that is exactly what the bill does, Takyiwaa Manuh, who is a member of the coalition, told AFP.
The US State Department believes the law "threatens the freedoms of all Ghanaians".
"Limiting the rights of one group in a society undermines the rights of everyone," they write in a statement.
Other criticisms raised are that the law could contribute to exacerbating fear and hatred, encourage violence against citizens of Ghana and restrict freedom of expression, movement and association. Whoever breaks the law risks imprisonment.
Inga kommentarer:
Skicka en kommentar