Alban S.K. Bagbin
The Speaker of the Ghanaian Parliament, Alban S.K. Bagbin, believes there is nothing wrong with enacting a law to regulate the LGBTQI community.
According to the Speaker, there is nothing improper about the current anti-gay bill in the House of Representatives.
He stated that there is an imperative need for legislation in the LGBTQI+ field.
Speaker Bagbin informed members of the British House of Lords and House of Commons, "There is nothing wrong with the efforts by Ghana's Parliament to legislate on the promotion of human sexual rights and family values in Ghana, using our constitution as a guide."
The Speaker indicated that Ghana's Parliament is aware of the numerous human rights provisions in the country's Constitution, stating that "any legislation that diminishes the human rights and freedoms guaranteed by our constitution will be challenged in court."
In response to a query about the President's role in the referenced bill, the Speaker insisted that Ghana's legislature has the authority and capacity to legislate on the subject and will not tolerate executive interference.
He explained that the President's duty is to emphasize legislation submitted to him by Parliament.
In this procedure, the President may make recommendations for Parliament's consideration. However, the legislature, not the executive, holds the ultimate legislative authority. He stated, "Ghana's democracy is based on the rule of law, not the rule of man."
He added that Africa is unfazed by the veiled threats of withdrawal of investments and international aid, as well as other stringent economic measures, which have accompanied the continent's efforts to protect its culture, values, and societal conventions, as well as to ensure the future of its youth.
"Threats are inappropriate. If your neighbor or business associate has a problem, you assist him in resolving it. According to the Rt. Hon. Speaker, boycotts and threats do not solve problems; engagement and understanding do.
He explained that once a group reaches consensus on what human rights, values, and principles entail, they proceed on. What is required is alignment and context comprehension.