Ghana’s Minister of Communications, Hon. Sam George, has publicly criticised Ghana’s recent decision to abstain from a key United Nations vote on LGBTQ+ rights, describing it as a contradiction of the country’s stated position and a betrayal of national values.
In a strongly worded Facebook post, Sam George reaffirmed his unwavering opposition to LGBTQ+ practices and expressed dismay at what he called a “conflict” between Ghana’s verbal stance and its action on the international stage.
“I have read the full statement Ghana made on the floor in relation to our position on draft resolution L.24. I align fully with the letter and spirit of the text,” he said.
“However, I cannot in good conscience understand the decision to abstain in the subsequent vote. That vote is in conflict with Ghana’s espoused position and my conscience. We MUST at all times make our position clear and unambiguous.”
His comments come in the wake of Ghana abstaining from a United Nations vote on Resolution L.24, which addressed global protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. While Ghana reportedly expressed its reservations on the resolution during debate, it opted to abstain rather than vote outright.
Sam George, a vocal advocate for anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, used the moment to urge Parliament to fast-track the passage of the reintroduced anti-LGBTQ+ bill. He noted that the same bill which was unanimously passed by Parliament last year, was ultimately not signed into law by then-President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
“Together with my colleagues in Parliament, we have resubmitted the same bill,” he said. “I urge Parliament to expedite the approval process so we present the Bill to President John Dramani Mahama.”
The bill in question, known as the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, has drawn sharp criticism from international human rights groups, while receiving significant support from various sectors of Ghanaian society.
Sam George insisted that the protection of Ghanaian cultural values and the moral upbringing of children should not be compromised.
“The innocence of Ghanaian children and the sanctity of our values cannot be traded for any considerations,” he declared. “Let truth and our conscience and principles be our guiding light.”
