The Paramount Chief of the Wenchiki Traditional Area, Alhaji Chief Abubakari Awuffor, has added his voice to the ongoing national debate on Ghana’s anti-LGBTQ legislation, urging President John Dramani Mahama to assent to the bill passed by Parliament.
According to the chief, the legislation reflects the cultural, moral and religious values of many Ghanaians and should be implemented without further delay.
He said traditional authorities have a responsibility to safeguard what he described as the country’s long-standing cultural heritage and moral principles.
Speaking in an interview with the media, Alhaji Awuffor noted that the delay in assenting to the bill has prolonged public debate and uncertainty surrounding the legislation.
He argued that presidential assent would provide clarity on the country’s position and bring finality to the legislative process.
The chief further advocated stricter sanctions in the proposed law, including lengthy prison terms for persons found to be promoting or engaging in LGBTQ-related activities. He maintained that such measures would serve as a deterrent and help preserve values he believes are central to Ghanaian society.
His remarks come amid sustained national and international discussions over the proposed legislation.
While supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect cultural and social values, critics contend that some of its provisions could have implications for human rights and Ghana’s international commitments.
As debate over the bill continues, political leaders, religious groups, traditional authorities and civil society organisations remain keenly interested in the President’s decision on whether to assent to the legislation.
