Finance Ministry advises President Akufo-Addo against assenting to Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo
The Ministry of Finance has urged President Akufo-Addo to exercise caution and refrain from signing the recently passed anti-LGBTQ+ Bill into law. In a press release issued on Monday, March 4, the Finance Ministry highlighted potential adverse consequences, particularly in terms of financial support from international organizations such as the Bretton Woods Institutions, if the bill is enacted.
The statement expressed concerns that the approval and disbursement of the expected US$300 million in financing from the First Ghana Resilient Recovery Development Policy Operation (Budget Support) could be jeopardized if the bill becomes law. Similarly, ongoing negotiations for the Second Ghana Resilient Recovery Development Policy Operation (Budget Support), amounting to US$300 million, may face suspension.
The Finance Ministry emphasized that the consequences of these actions could result in a significant loss of financial resources, creating a financing gap in the 2024 budget.
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To address these challenges, the Ministry called upon the President to engage with religious bodies to discuss the potential economic implications of signing the bill. It further suggested the establishment of a robust coalition and framework to support key development initiatives that could be affected.
The Ministry suggested that the President defer assenting to the bill until the court rules on the legal issues raised by key national stakeholders, including civil society organizations (CSOs) and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ).
The Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, which was approved by Parliament on February 28, 2024, criminalizes LGBTQ activities and prohibits their promotion, advocacy, and funding. Under the legislation, individuals found guilty of such acts could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years, while those promoting or sponsoring such activities could be sentenced to three to five years in prison.
The passage of the bill has generated criticism from various stakeholders, including Virginia Evelyn Palmer, the Ambassador of the United States to Ghana.
SOURCE: Coverghana.com.gh
