Reported by Ngresangma Martha – 4/03/2024

The Ministry of Finance has advised President Akufo-Addo against endorsing the recently passed Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, citing potential adverse effects on the country’s financial relationships with international organizations such as the Bretton Woods Institutions. In a press release issued on March 4, the ministry expressed concerns that signing the bill into law could jeopardize the disbursement of anticipated US$300 million financing from the First Ghana Resilient Recovery Development Policy Operation (Budget Support), as well as suspend ongoing negotiations for an additional US$300 million under the Second Ghana Resilient Recovery Development Policy Operation (Budget Support).

The ministry emphasized the significant financial implications of such actions, which could lead to a financing gap in the 2024 budget. To address these concerns, the Finance Ministry urged the President to engage with religious bodies to discuss the economic ramifications of signing the bill and to establish a robust coalition and framework for supporting key development initiatives.

Furthermore, the ministry suggested deferring the assent to the bill until the courts rule on legal issues raised by key national stakeholders, including civil society organizations (CSOs) and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ).

The Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, passed by Parliament on February 28, criminalizes LGBTQ activities and prohibits their promotion, advocacy, and funding. Offenders could face sentences ranging from 6 months to 3 years in prison, while those found promoting or sponsoring such activities may be imprisoned for 3 to 5 years.

The bill’s passage has sparked criticism from various quarters, including Virginia Evelyn Palmer, the United States Ambassador to Ghana. This development underscores the ongoing debate and tensions surrounding LGBTQ rights and legislation in Ghanaian society.