Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has emphatically voiced his disapproval of LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, citing the opposition of the Islamic faith and other religious beliefs prevalent in the country.
Driven by his deep-rooted commitment to Islam, Dr. Bawumia left no room for ambiguity, asserting his stance against and lack of endorsement for LGBTQ practices.
The Vice President’s statements were prompted by mounting calls from various quarters, especially certain Muslim communities, urging him to clarify his position on the contentious issue of LGBTQ rights.
These remarks come amidst ongoing discussions regarding potential legislation concerning LGBTQ rights, with President Akufo-Addo yet to enact any such law into effect.
Speaking to the crowd gathered for Eidul-Fitr prayers at the Kumasi Central Mosque in the Ashanti Region, Dr. Bawumia reinforced his unwavering opposition to LGBTQ activities, emphasizing that they would have no place under his leadership.
Highlighting Ghana’s cultural and societal standards, Dr. Bawumia emphasized that the practice of homosexuality goes against the norms and values deeply ingrained in Ghanaian society.
He added:
“Furthermore, as a Muslim, my view on this matter aligns with the position of my religious faith. The Holy Quran is replete with verses frowning on LGBTQ acts, including same-sex marriages. My faith is therefore very strictly against the practice of homosexuality, no “ifs” or “buts”. No shades of grey.”
“Therefore, I personally cannot support that which my religion, and indeed, all the major religions in Ghana clearly and unequivocably forbid. All the major religious traditions in Ghana (Christianity and Islam) are opposed to this practice and I stand opposed to it now and I will stand opposed to it as President, Insha Allah.”
In February of this year, Parliament approved the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.
The proposed legislation entails a minimum prison sentence of three years and a maximum of five years for individuals involved in and advocating for homosexual activities within the nation. Despite this, the bill awaits President Akufo-Addo’s signature to become law, as it faces a legal challenge at the Supreme Court.
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