The Minority Caucus has issued a stern ultimatum to Deputy Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, warning against any further delays in the passage of the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, declaring that such actions will not be tolerated.
The bill, aimed at safeguarding Ghanaian family values and curtailing LGBTQ+ activities, has been a subject of intense debate in recent parliamentary sessions. While it gained initial approval on Thursday, February 8, objections raised by Afenyo-Markin concerning a specific clause prompted a delay in its immediate passage.
Minority Chief Whip, Governs Agbodza, emphasized the urgency for completing any necessary consultations regarding proposed amendments before Wednesday, setting a deadline for the process. He made it clear that the Minority would not entertain any actions perceived as prolonging the approval process beyond the stipulated deadline.
The contentious provision in question entails a three-to-five-year jail term for those promoting or sponsoring LGBTQ+ activities, with individuals directly involved facing a minimum sentence of six months to a maximum of three years.
While Afenyo-Markin supports the bill’s overarching principles, he vehemently opposes the clause that could lead to the imprisonment of individuals associated with LGBTQ+ activities.
Addressing Afenyo-Markin’s concerns, Agbodza underscored the Minority’s stance, stating, “We should also be clear in our minds that we will not unduly always find a reason to postpone the progress of this bill to another day.” He criticized what he perceived as filibustering tactics, emphasizing the need for timely resolution.
