Gyakye Quayson declares opposition to LGBTQ+

Deputy Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, James Gyakye Quayson, has firmly declared that he will never support LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, citing his strong cultural and moral beliefs.

During his vetting at the Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, July 25, Mr. Quayson emphasized that his position is grounded in African values and personal conviction.

“As a true African, I’m not in support of LGBTQ,” he said, reiterating that his stance remains unchanged.

His comments come at a time when Parliament is preparing to reintroduce the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill — popularly referred to as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill — which seeks to criminalize same-sex relationships and any form of LGBTQ+ advocacy or funding.

The bill, which passed under the Eighth Parliament, failed to receive presidential assent before the term ended in early 2024, causing it to lapse.

It has since been reintroduced as a private member’s bill and will undergo the full legislative process again.

If passed in its current form, individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ could face up to three years in prison, while promoters and advocates may receive five to ten years.

While the bill enjoys strong support among some lawmakers and religious groups, it has also drawn sharp criticism from human rights advocates locally and internationally, many of whom have condemned the proposed penalties as harsh and discriminatory.