Parliament has given its nod to an amendment to the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, popularly known as the anti-gay bill, which introduces stricter penalties for individuals involved in supporting, encouraging, facilitating, or promoting LGBTQ activities, as reported by Myjoyonline.
The amendment, put forward by co-sponsor Sam George, seeks to institute robust consequences to ensure adherence to the law once it is enacted.
Under the proposed amendment, individuals found guilty of promoting LGBTQ activities could face a minimum prison term of three months and a maximum of six months, coupled with a fine ranging from GH₵600 to GH₵1200.
Sam George defended the severity of the penalties, asserting, “Even the GH₵600 fine is reasonable because it aims to prevent lengthy custodial sentences.” He argued that the proposed fines and prison terms would serve as an effective deterrent.
However, Deputy Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin voiced dissent over the amendment, suggesting that a custodial sentence of three months or less would be more suitable. Afenyo-Markin underscored the financial strain on the state and cited research indicating negative outcomes for individuals post-release from incarceration.
Afenyo-Markin proposed considering shorter prison terms, stating, “If the corresponding penalty unit cannot be defined within the framework of the proposal, then we should not opt for a higher one.”
He stressed the importance of retaining the option of a fine, asserting that “this parliament must adhere to that. Therefore, colleagues, we cannot eliminate fines. And we should not entertain the notion that simply being found guilty of this offense should lead to imprisonment without the possibility of a fine. Let’s exercise caution.”
