Citing Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, also known as the anti-LGBTQ bill, President John Dramani Mahama has argued that multilateral organizations like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) should not meddle in cultural affairs.
In an interview with Bloomberg TV, President Mahama made the case that international financial institutions should refrain from imposing their culture on others, while also emphasizing the importance of respecting cultural diversity. “I think it’s best for multilateral organizations to stay out of cultural affairs. The globe is diverse. Since our cultures are distinct, I don’t believe that cultural imposition should be a component of the mandate of global institutions. That’s not what I agree with,” he said.
Addressing the possibility of reviving the bill, which expired earlier this year, Mahama emphasized the need for broad stakeholder consultation before any new legislation is introduced in Parliament. “The old bill expired because it was not assented to by the President. There was a legal challenge. Eventually, the legal challenge was dismissed. So it means that the President could assent to it but it’s expired,” he explained. He further stressed the importance of thoroughly reviewing any new proposal, ensuring that all perspectives are considered in shaping Ghana’s legal and social policies.
When questioned about concerns that international institutions and donors might withdraw funding if Ghana enacts the bill, Mahama responded firmly, stating that such decisions are at the discretion of those institutions. “If they decide to pull it, well, it’s their prerogative. But I don’t believe that multilateral institutions such as the World Bank and the IMF should include in their mandates how people behave culturally,” he declared.
Ghana’s Anti-LGBTQ Bill
Ghana’s anti-LGBTQ bill, which was passed by Parliament in February 2024, faced legal challenges before expiring without presidential assent. The Supreme Court recently struck out a review application challenging the constitutionality of the bill, effectively clearing the way for a fresh legislative process should lawmakers choose to reintroduce it.
The bill seeks to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities, with offenders facing a minimum three-year jail term and a maximum of five years if convicted. It also prohibits pro-gay advocacy and funding for LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana.
As discussions around the bill’s revival gain momentum, Mahama’s remarks suggest a measured approach that respects Ghana’s cultural values, while acknowledging international concerns. However, he remains adamant that Ghana’s cultural policies should not be dictated by external financial institutions.
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