Rev. Canon Dr. Confidence Bansah, the founder of the Center for Religion and Public Life (CRPL-Ghana), has warned politicians about the dangerous implications of declaring their stance on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) as a campaign tool ahead of the 2024 elections.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement under the theme, “Gender Stereotypes and the Protection of All Persons During Ghana’s 2024 General Elections,” on October 24, 2024, at the University of Ghana, Dr. Bansah emphasised the national security risks involved.
“This borders on national security, and Ghanaians should be very mindful of what we are asking for,” Dr. Bansah stated.
“Since 1992, when Ghanaians have been holding elections, there has never been a time when homophobia was used as a campaign tool, unlike now.
“Politicians, running mates, and party members are making promises about how they will deal with LGBTQI community members when they come to power. This has very dangerous and reckless implications for the community members.”
Dr. Bansah noted that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals are integral members of society.
“These are our brothers and sisters, and they are not strangers. They live with us in the community. They have parents, fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters.
“Their lives are at risk, and we are using the LGBTQI community as a battleground. Once you are sympathetic to the LGBTQI+ community, you risk the chance of winning the election completely.”
He urged politicians to be mindful of their rhetoric and to see democracy as inclusive. “Ghana is not for politicians; anybody can enter into politics.
“LGBTQI members are in politics, and more will be entering. Politicians should be mindful of the things they say and the laws they propose, especially around this election. Democratic freedoms must be inclusive, and that should be the starting point for politicians.”
The discussion featured other security services, including the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Prisons Service, as well as CSOs and members of the LGBT community.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Victoria Yamoah assured that the security services are prepared to protect everyone during the 2024 election.
“We, as a security institution, have a duty to protect each and every one. We are ever ready to protect everyone, regardless of where you are coming from.”
Dr. Augustina Ama Boadu, Assistant Director of Ghana Prisons Service in charge of Public Health, expressed her newfound understanding of the LGBTQI community.
“This discussion has opened my eyes more towards LGBTQI issues. They are also human beings with human rights. It is good that we protect them before, during, and after the elections. Nobody should take advantage to do anything against the law.”
Meanwhile, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and that of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) John Dramani Mahama have opposed the activities of the LGBTQ.
AM/KA
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