The Chairperson of the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Professor Audrey Gadzekpo, has raised concerns about the recent passage of the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill by Parliament. In a discussion on JoyNews’ Newsfile, she criticized the lack of transparency in the bill and disputed the claim that amendments were made after its passage.
Prof. Gadzekpo emphasized that her opposition to the bill is not based on the amendments but rather on the belief that the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill is flawed and unconstitutional. She highlighted that Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) are not only concerned about their own interests but also about the potential impact on the country’s democracy.
According to Prof. Gadzekpo, the bill violates constitutional provisions that prohibit discrimination based on gender. She stressed that the constitution protects all Ghanaians from discrimination, without singling out protection only for heterosexual individuals.
Furthermore, the professor argued that all bills must adhere to constitutional provisions, and after reviewing the clauses of the bill, it was found to not align with the constitution. She reiterated that using cultural values to enact laws contradicts the principles of the constitution.
Prof. Gadzekpo urged that the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill be reconsidered to ensure it aligns with constitutional provisions and does not infringe on the rights of all Ghanaians.
