The Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Rt. Rev Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, has called on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to approve the Anti-Gay Bill before the end of his tenure.
Speaking at the launch of the church’s Bicentennial Anniversary on Sunday, December 22, 2024, at the Osu Castle, Rt. Rev Dr. Opare Kwakye emphasized the importance of the President’s assent to the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, describing it as a symbolic gesture for the church’s 200th anniversary celebrations.
“For us Presbyterians, having given the bill our support under the leadership of my predecessor, we see its passage as our birthday gift for this year,” he stated. “Your Excellency, make our joy complete by assenting to the bill so it becomes law in Ghana. We seek to preserve the values of the African people through the gospel.”
The bill, passed by Parliament on February 28, 2024, seeks to safeguard traditional family values. However, it has faced criticism from human rights advocates who argue that it infringes on fundamental freedoms.
On December 18, the Supreme Court unanimously dismissed a petition by broadcast journalist and lawyer Richard Dela Sky, which sought to challenge the bill’s constitutionality. The court’s ruling clears the way for further deliberations.
Despite this legal milestone, President Akufo-Addo is yet to approve the bill, citing ongoing Supreme Court cases that could impact its implementation.
The call from the Presbyterian Church reflects the wider societal debate on balancing traditional values with human rights as Ghana navigates this contentious issue.
