Parliament passes Anti-LGBTQ+ bill

 

Parliament has finally passed the controversial Anti-LGBTQ+ bill after nearly three years since its introduction in the House.

The passage of the bill on Wednesday, February 28, occurred following several unsuccessful attempts to block it, which were rejected by the Speaker, Alban Bagbin.

On February 21, the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin withdrew several amendments he had proposed to the bill.

However, during the deliberation stage of the bill on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, Mr Afenyo-Markin restated his position on the bill, arguing that he was opposed to certain aspects of the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill.

He emphasised that the country should not enact measures that prohibit individuals or groups from supporting vulnerable members of society.

“You cannot — let’s not be too emotional about this; let’s be consistent. You are saying that you are protecting press freedom, so you are subjecting that provision to the constitutional imperative. And I’m pointing out to you that this particular provision must also be subjected to the constitution, and Article 17 is a major guide."

The Majority Leader further stated that he supports aspects of the bill that align with human rights.