In a significant turn of events in Ghana’s parliament, a discussion has emerged around the treatment of LGBT individuals under the law. A Ghanaian legislator has proposed a shift from incarceration to non-custodial sentences, such as counseling, for gay sex offenses. This proposal comes as the anti-LGBT bill, supported by a wide coalition of religious and traditional leaders and favored by a majority in the legislature, nears its final stages before potentially becoming law. The bill, as it stands, threatens to impose up to 10 years in prison for those promoting LGBT rights.
Concerns Over Prison Sodomy and Ineffectiveness of Jail Terms
The suggestion by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, a key figure from the ruling party, aims to address concerns that imprisoning LGBT individuals could paradoxically increase instances of sodomy within prison walls, thus exacerbating the very issue the bill seeks to combat. Afenyo-Markin’s stance is that the current direction of the legislation might, in fact, promote homosexuality rather than deter it. He advocates for a reform-minded approach to what he perceives as a behavioral issue, suggesting that the bill should retain its core intentions while adopting more humane and effective methods of addressing LGBT-related offenses.
The Road Ahead: Amendments and Presidential Assent
The proposed amendments have sparked a debate within the parliament, with some members opposing the move towards non-custodial sentences. However, the motion for the bill to undergo another reading was approved, opening the door for potential modifications. The bill’s fate now lies in the hands of President Nana Akufo-Addo, who has yet to reveal his stance clearly. Meanwhile, the international community watches closely, with the United Nations previously criticizing the law for promoting discrimination and violence against sexual minorities. This development comes as Uganda enacts one of the world’s harshest anti-LGBT laws, highlighting a trend of increasing legal challenges for the LGBT community in Africa.