Ningo Prampram Member of Parliament and a key sponsor of the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, Sam George, has sought to clarify misconceptions and misinformation surrounding the controversial legislation.
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, Mr. George expressed frustration over what he described as misinformation and miseducation about the bill. He particularly addressed the claim that LGBTQ+ individuals would face discrimination in job applications.
“Does anyone ask you who you slept within your bedroom when applying for a job? What happens in the confines of your bedroom remains the business of you and your partner,” he stated.
The legislator responded to an earlier statement by Dr. Amanda Odoi, another panelist on the show, who had suggested that the passage of the Anti-LGBTQ Bill would not only infringe on the rights of LGBTQ+ people and make them feel unsafe in their own country but also result in discrimination in job applications.
In his argument, the MP stated that when individuals publicly define themselves by their sexual preference, it becomes a matter of public policy. He defended the bill’s focus on regulating such matters, asserting that public policy would naturally apply.
Mr. George also addressed the issue of funding, suggesting that some proponents of LGBTQ+ rights may be more interested in financial support than the welfare of Ghanaian children.
“If this is all about funding for you, I am more interested in the sanctity of Ghanaian children,” he said.
Mr. George highlighted the international context, pointing out the difference in LGBTQ+ rights enforcement in various countries. He noted that individuals respect and adhere to the laws of countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia when traveling there.
Comparing Nigeria’s 15-year jail term for engaging in LGBTQ+ activities to Ghana’s 3-year jail term, Mr. George questioned the moral authority of opponents of the LGBTQ+ Bill who would travel to Nigeria and still conform to their rules.
“… but think that Ghana should become a juggle because we think we are so liberal,” he stated.
On Wednesday, February 28, Parliament unanimously passed the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill after completing the third reading.
The bill has been a subject of intense debate and discussion since its introduction to the legislature three years ago. Proponents argue that it is necessary to uphold cultural and religious values, while opponents argue that certain provisions of the bill violate human rights and promote discrimination.
Following its passage, many opponents have expressed their displeasure, with some civil society groups threatening legal action should President Akufo-Addo assent to the bill for it to become law.
tigpost.co