Religious leaders engage in dialogue on human rights and sexual minority rights in Ghana

A two-day social dialogue focusing on human rights and the rights-based approach to protecting sexual minorities took place at the True Vine Hotel in Kumasi, organized by the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana).

The event gathered religious and faith-based leaders to discuss the implications of the controversial Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2021 which seeks to criminalize LGBTQ+ identities and activities.

Facilitated by prominent figures including 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 dialogue aimed to educate participants on the nuances of human rights as they relate to sexual minorities.

Speaking during an interview on the sidelines of the event, Senior Programs Officer at CDD-Ghana, Dr. Michael Augustus Akagbor shared insights on the purpose of the dialogue. “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 explained.

Akagbor highlighted that the bill includes provisions that could make ordinary citizens vulnerable, such as a duty to report anyone suspected of being part of a sexual minority.

“Interestingly, none of the participants had read the bill before this engagement. After our training, there was a noticeable paradigm shift in their understanding of human rights and the dangers posed by the bill,” he noted.

When asked about the objectives of the dialogue, Akagbor affirmed, “Oh, yes, it has been met.” He emphasized the importance of continuing such engagements across the country, noting that similar dialogues in other regions have led to increased awareness among religious leaders. “The more they understand the bill, the more they reconsider their initial positions,” he said.

Regarding the focus on religious leaders, Akagbor explained that CDD-Ghana is also engaging journalists and academic institutions. “We’re working with stakeholders who can shape public opinion because their influence is significant in the public space,” he stated.

Executive Director of the Centre for International Law and Accountability (ACILA), William Nyarko provided further context on the educational components of the dialogue. “I took them through the constitutional provisions for the protection of rights of all persons under Chapter Five of the Constitution,” he said.

Nyarko also discussed the historical context of anti-homosexuality laws, tracing their origins back thousands of years and explaining how they transitioned from ecclesiastical to state law.

“Many participants initially supported the bill, but as we examined its provisions, they began to see that it poses risks not just to LGBTQ+ individuals but to everyone,” he explained.

Nyarko emphasized the importance of grounding discussions in law. “As I explained to them, the constitution is like the Bible. While they may reference scripture in their sermons, governance relies on constitutional law,” he noted.

He expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the dialogue, stating that many participants shifted from supporting the bill to recognizing its potential for chaos and harm.

When asked about advice for parliament regarding the bill, Nyarko highlighted procedural concerns. “The bill violates Article 108 of the Constitution, which stipulates that any bill imposing costs on the state must come from the executive, not as a private member’s bill.

This is a significant hurdle that needs to be addressed,” he stated, adding that he looks forward to the Supreme Court’s decision on the matter.

Participant Perspectives
Bishop Christian Antwi-Bosiako, Presiding Bishop of His Image Ministries expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in this critical discussion. “This conference has really enlightened us,” he said.

He emphasized the need for religious leaders to advocate against the bill, which he believes could have dire consequences for their communities.

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

Evangelist Nana Afua Nsiah Aninkura echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the dangers of the bill's provisions.

“The bill is not good at all. It puts everyone at risk,” she said, urging parliamentarians to revisit the bill and consider the broader implications for Ghanaian society.

Rhoda Sarpong, a singer and evangelist trainee at the Heaven Shower Blessing Church also called for a reconsideration of the bill, emphasizing that it could lead to unjust accusations and legal repercussions for ordinary citizens.

“Maybe you’re just friends living together, and then somebody can just report you to the police that you are lesbians,” she noted, stressing the need for a more thoughtful approach to legislation.

Rev. Reindorf Antwi Bosiako, General Overseer of Miracle Maker Ministry, reflected on the broader implications of human rights.

“Every man or woman, even a child has his or her rights,” he explained, while also acknowledging the need for laws that protect everyone’s rights without infringing on others.

He criticized the focus on the Ghanaian Family Values Bill as a misplaced priority, suggesting that parliament should instead.

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