The debate over legislation restricting LGBTQ+ rights has reignited in Ghana. Recent statements by President John Mahama , deeming the bill a low priority compared to economic emergencies, have fractured public opinion and sparked a heated political controversy.

A presidential about-face that is causing controversy

While he had previously expressed support for the promulgation of the text, John Mahama is now calling for restraint. For the head of state, national energy must be focused on essential pillars:

1. Education and health ;
2. Job creation ;
3. The stabilization of oil exports .

This new stance is perceived by some, such as activist Raphaël Ahenu Junior , as a political maneuver. He accuses the president of having exploited the cause for electoral purposes before backing down once confronted with the realities of power, thus creating a climate of distrust.

A clash of visions: Traditional values vs. Human rights

The bill, known for its severity, aims not only to criminalize homosexual relations, but also to penalize any support for or promotion of LGBTQ+ communities. This prospect deeply divides society:

1. The conservative bloc: The Catholic Bishops' Conference of Ghana and various religious organizations are lobbying for the protection of "family values." For them, this text is a necessary safeguard for the country's social stability.
2. The progressive bloc: Like Ebenezer Piga , human rights advocates welcome the focus on concrete problems. They argue that criminalization will do nothing to resolve the country's major crises, such as environmental degradation or illegal mining.

What future for the law?

The legislative future of the text remains unclear. Although adopted by the previous legislature, it was never promulgated. With the renewal of Parliament, the procedure must start from scratch.

1. Reintroduction of the text before the new members of parliament.
2. New review in the context of a global economic crisis.
3. International pressure is mounting as Accra prepares to host a pan-African summit on family values.

The question is: will John Mahama succeed in keeping this issue in the background to save the economy, or will he give in to pressure from a conservative electorate at the risk of alienating part of the international community?