
Accra’s high court has rejected an attempt to force the president to sign a contentious anti-LGBTQ+ measure that was approved by parliament in February.
A political controversy in the West African nation resulted from President Nana Akufo-Addo’s office declaring last month that he would not sign the measure until the Supreme Court ruled on its constitutionality.
The measure still faces two outstanding Supreme Court challenges, therefore Justice Ellen Lordina Serwaa Mireku endorsed the administration’s position on Monday, declaring that it would be improper to force Mr. Akufo-Addo to sign it. This was reported by the Reuters news agency.
Two Ghanaians, attorney Richard Dela Sky and activist Amanda Odoi, submitted the two challenges independently.
Their goal is to prevent the anti-LGBTQ+ measure from passing into law.
Anyone who identifies as LGBTQ+ faces a maximum three-year prison sentence under the measure, while those who promote their actions risk a five-year sentence.
The motion was moved by MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor to force Mr. Akufo-Addo , sign the contentious bill.
Local media indicated that his attorney said he will file an appeal against the decision.
Ghana’s political divides have been exacerbated by the bill, which has the finance ministry threatening to forfeit the nation at least $3.8 billion (£3 billion) in World Bank assistance should it become law.
President Akufo-Addo, however, is under pressure from a number of lawmakers and people to sign it. (BBC)
Be the first to comment