Thousands of protesters gathered in the streets on Tuesday, October 8, to voice their frustration and demand swift legislative action on the Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly referred to as the anti-gay bill.
Led by proponents of the bill, the diverse group of protesters included activists, community leaders, and concerned citizens, all united in their call for the president’s immediate assent.
The bill, which has been awaiting approval since Parliament passed it on February 28, has become a contentious issue due to its provisions aimed at criminalizing same-sex relationships and restricting advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. The delays in its approval have been further compounded by a Supreme Court ruling on July 17, which postponed judgments on anti-gay cases until all related legal matters are addressed.
Samuel Nartey George, the bill’s lead advocate and Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, has been vocal about the need for swift action. In an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM, George emphasized that the Chief Justice has the authority to fast-track the resolution of the matter.
According to George, the Chief Justice possesses the power to demand that all parties in the case file within the stipulated times outlined in the Rules of Procedure, ensuring that statements of claim are filed within 14 days. George argued that this would prevent unnecessary delays, stating, “If everybody is going to take one year to file their documents, the Chief Justice thinks that that is a proper delivery of justice, where parties in the case will determine as and when and how they would be doing their filing.”
George’s criticism of the current pace of justice was evident as he emphasized the importance of expeditious delivery. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” he stated, “and the expeditious delivery of justice is critical to an effective justice delivery system. So, the Chief Justice has to be up and doing.”
The protest on Tuesday was a manifestation of the growing frustration among proponents of the bill, who feel that the delays are hindering the implementation of the legislation.
The protesters aim to push for the president’s immediate assent to the bill, which has sparked controversy and debate.
As the debate surrounding the bill continues, concerns about its potential impact on human rights and the LGBTQ+ community remain. The international community has expressed concerns about the bill’s implications for Ghana’s human rights record.
In the midst of this controversy, George’s plea for swift judicial action is driven by concerns that the bill’s delay is paralyzing both the executive and legislative branches.
The outcome of this legislative process will have significant implications for Ghana’s social and political landscape.
As the nation waits with bated breath, one thing is clear: the fate of the Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill hangs in the balance.
The president’s decision will have far-reaching consequences for Ghana’s human rights record, its relationships with international partners, and the lives of its citizens.
