Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has stated that no Parliament should enact laws that criminalise individuals based on whom they choose to love, stressing that fundamental human rights must be protected regardless of personal beliefs or societal differences.
Speaking during discussions on the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, Afenyo-Markin argued that while cultural, religious and traditional values remain important to Ghanaian society, lawmakers must be careful not to pass laws that undermine the rights and freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution.
According to him, Parliament’s primary responsibility is to create laws that promote justice, equality and national unity rather than targeting specific groups of people because of their identity or personal relationships.
He noted that the debate surrounding LGBTQ+ rights has generated strong opinions across the country, with many Ghanaians expressing concerns based on moral, cultural and religious convictions. However, he cautioned against using the legislative process to punish individuals solely for their private choices.
Afenyo-Markin emphasized that democratic societies thrive when citizens are free to express themselves and live without fear of discrimination or persecution. He urged lawmakers to consider the broader implications of criminalising people for their sexual orientation, warning that such measures could attract criticism from the international community and raise questions about Ghana’s commitment to human rights.
The Minority Leader also called for continued national dialogue on the issue, encouraging stakeholders, including religious leaders, traditional authorities, civil society organisations and legal experts, to engage in constructive discussions aimed at finding common ground.
His comments come amid renewed national debate over the future of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill and ongoing discussions about how Ghana should balance cultural values with constitutional protections and international human rights obligations.
The issue remains one of the most divisive topics in the country’s political landscape, with supporters of the bill arguing that it protects Ghanaian family values, while opponents maintain that it infringes on the rights and freedoms of individuals.
As discussions continue, Afenyo-Markin insists that Parliament must exercise caution and ensure that any legislation passed serves the interests of justice, fairness and the protection of all citizens, regardless of their background or personal circumstances.
Source
