Religious leaders in Kumasi unite for human rights: A call to rethink the family values bill

Religious leaders in Kumasi unite for human rights as they make an urgent call for a rethink about the family values bill.

In a groundbreaking dialogue on human rights, religious leaders from diverse faiths gathered at the True Vine Hotel in Kumasi on November 20-21, 2024. Organized by the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), this two-day event focused on the controversial Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2021—a proposed legislation that aims to criminalize LGBTQ+ identities and activities, raising significant concerns among human rights advocates and the public.

Unveiling Misconceptions

Facilitated by insightful voices like Dr. Michael Augustus Akagbor, Senior Programs Officer at CDD-Ghana, and William Nyarko, Executive Director of the Centre for International Law and Accountability (ACILA), the discussions aimed to clarify the intricacies of human rights pertaining to sexual minorities.

Dr. Akagbor remarked on a critical discovery: many participants had come to the dialogue without prior knowledge of the bill’s specific provisions.

He noted, “This dialogue has been very eventful. Many people do not know the actual contents of the bill and speculate based on the proponents’ focus on the sexual aspects without understanding the broader implications.”

He highlighted alarming provisions in the bill, such as the obligation to report individuals suspected of being part of the LGBTQ+ community, raising concerns about the potential jeopardy to ordinary citizens. The atmosphere shifted dramatically as participants learned more about the bill’s ramifications. “Interestingly, none of the participants had read the bill before this engagement,” Dr. Akagbor observed. “After our training, there was a noticeable paradigm shift in their understanding of human rights and the dangers posed by the bill.”

The Importance of Education

William Nyarko expanded on the educational mission of the event, underscoring the foundational role of constitutional law in human rights discourse. “I took them through the constitutional provisions for the protection of rights of all persons under Chapter Five of the Constitution,” he explained.

As he traced the historical context of anti-homosexuality laws, Nyarko emphasized how the perspectives of many participants transformed. Initially aligned with the bill, attendees began recognizing its far-reaching threats, not only to LGBTQ+ individuals but to the general public as well.

Nyarko also presented procedural irregularities associated with the bill, noting its contravention of Article 108 of the Ghanaian Constitution, which requires that any bill imposing costs on the state must originate from the executive branch.

“This is a significant hurdle that needs to be addressed,” he stated, expressing anticipation for the Supreme Court’s ruling on the matter.

Religious leaders in Kumasi unite for human rights: Voices of Concern and Hope

As the dialogue progressed, participants began voicing their concerns about the legislative proposal’s potential societal implications. Bishop Christian Antwi-Bosiako of His Image Ministries expressed gratitude for the enlightening discussions, urging his fellow religious leaders to take a stand against the bill.

“We should all rise up and speak against it. Otherwise, we will all be dealt with even if we have good intentions,” he warned passionately.

Evangelist Nana Afua Nsiah Aninkura from True Word Charismatic Church echoed these sentiments, asserting that the bill endangers everyone in society.

“The bill is not good at all. It puts everyone at risk,” she urged, calling on parliamentarians to reflect on its broader societal repercussions.

Rhoda Sarpong, a singer and evangelist trainee, stressed the dangers of unjust accusations arising from the bill. “Maybe you’re just friends living together, and then somebody can just report you to the police that you are lesbians,” she cautioned, spotlighting the potential for misuse of the law.

Rev. Reindorf Antwi Bosiako, General Overseer of Miracle Maker Ministry, reinforced the universal nature of human rights, asserting that all individuals, regardless of age or status, deserve protection.

“Every man or woman, even a child has his or her rights,” he stated, criticizing the focus on the Family Values Bill as a misplaced priority.

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A Transformative Conclusion

As the dialogue wrapped up, it became evident that conversations surrounding human rights and the treatment of sexual minorities in Ghana are evolving.

Religious leaders are increasingly recognizing their vital role in advocating for justice and equality.

Through shared understanding and newfound perspectives, they are poised to engage their congregations and communities to foster a more inclusive society.

This dialogue not only sheds light on critical human rights concerns but also paves the way for future discussions that could shape the landscape of human rights in Ghana for the better.

Source: Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor

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