Anti-gay bill: You've done nothing in Ghana to prove you're against LGBTQ+; there's nothing to show — Kwesi Pratt jabs Bawumia

Kwesi Pratt has criticised Vice President and New Patriotic Party flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, over his recent comments on LGBTQ+ issues in Ghana, arguing that mere statements are not enough to prove his stance against homosexuality.

Dr. Bawumia, speaking at Eid-ul-Fitr prayers in Kumasi, asserted his opposition to LGBTQ+ activities, referencing his religious beliefs as a Muslim.

He emphasised the Quran's condemnation of homosexuality and pledged to stand firmly against it.

“I would like to take this opportunity to personally comment on the raging issue of LGBTQ in Ghana. First of all, it is important to note that our cultural and societal norms and values as Ghanaians frown on the practice of homosexuality.

“Furthermore, as a Muslim, my view on this matter aligns with the position of my religious faith. The Holy Quran is replete with verses frowning on LGBTQ acts including same-sex marriages. My faith is therefore very strictly against the practice of homosexuality, no ifs or buts. No shades of grey”, Dr. Bawumia stated.

He also pledged to stand by his faith exclaiming “I stand opposed to it now and I will stand opposed to it as President.”

Reacting to this on Peace FM’s “Kokrokoo” morning show, Kwesi Pratt stressed that Ghana has moved beyond the point of leaders merely stating their opposition to homosexuality.

He pointed out that Parliament has already passed an anti-LGBTQ+ bill criminalising homosexual activities and advocacy.

"The period for expressing our minds on our position on the issue is long gone. We’ve passed that stage.

“There is only one thing left to do and that’s for the President to assent to the bill to make it law. This is where we are now. The period for expressing our minds on our position on the issue is long gone. We’ve passed that stage.

“Parliament opened the floor for everyone to make his/her suggestions. We have gone past that stage now,” he said.

He questioned Dr. Bawumia on tangible actions taken to ensure the bill becomes law, urging him to demonstrate his commitment by advising President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to sign the Bill into law.

"What has he done about this bill which hasn’t been signed yet to prove that he is opposed to LGBTQ+ activities in this country? I haven’t seen anything," Pratt remarked.