The Minority in Parliament has demanded a public apology from the Minister for Foreign Affairs over what it termed as a misrepresentation of Ghana’s position during a recent United Nations Human Rights Council vote.
This follows Ghana’s abstention from a United Nations Human Rights Council vote on the renewal of the mandate of the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Ghana’s position has triggered backlash from the Minority, who claim the government misrepresented the country’s values on the international stage.
Although the Ministry of Foreign Affairs later clarified that the vote was not to endorse LGBTQI rights but rather to protect individuals from violence and discrimination, the Minority remains unconvinced.
Addressing the press on Wednesday, July 9, the Member of Parliament for Assin South, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, said the Mahama-led government must take responsibility for what he described as a betrayal of Ghanaians’ trust.
“We are disappointed in you, President Mahama, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and whoever was sent to misrepresent Ghana. This is a betrayal of trust. Instead of apologising to Ghanaians and assuring us that this won’t happen again, you are offering all kinds of English explanations,” he stated.
Ghana didn’t vote on LGBTQI rights — Foreign Affairs Ministry clarifies