The Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has declared that Ghana must stand firm to reject LGBTQ+ practices, regardless of the potential economic consequences.

Speaking to chiefs, religious leaders, and key stakeholders in Abuakwa North as part of his campaign tour in the Eastern Region, Dr. Bawumia stressed the importance of preserving the country’s cultural, familial, and religious values.

“Under a Bawumia government, it will never happen. We will not accept it, no matter the cost. We have to stand firm on this issue. We will preserve our culture, our marriage, and our religion,” Dr. Bawumia asserted.

The remarks by the Vice President come in direct opposition to a cautionary statement from the Finance Ministry dated March 4, 2024, which advised the government against signing the “Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill” passed by Parliament due to its potential economic impact.

The Finance Ministry warned that Ghana could lose approximately US$3.8 billion in World Bank financing over the next five to six years, including US$600 million in budget support and US$250 million for the Financial Stability Fund in 2024 alone.

The ministry also stressed the negative effects this could have on Ghana’s foreign exchange reserves and exchange rate stability.

The controversial bill, which criminalizes LGBTQ+ activities and their promotion, was unanimously passed by Parliament on February 28, 2024.

If signed into law by the President, it will impose penalties ranging from six months to three years of imprisonment for individuals involved in same-sex activities.

Currently, the bill faces legal challenges, with two lawsuits before the Supreme Court questioning its constitutionality.