All forms of abuse, violence and discrimination that affect the mental health and well-being of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex (LGBTI) community in Ghana are condemnable, local group Centre for Popular Education and Human Rights (CEPEHRG) has said.

According to CEPEHRG, LGBTIs, just as other persons, have rights that must be respected.

The group noted that in spite of the World Health Organization’s published revised version of the “International Classification of Diseases Manual”, in which homosexuality was not considered a mental disease any longer, some prominent persons in Ghana, including Dr Akwasi Osei, Chief Psychiatrist of Ghana and the Chief Executive of the Ghana Mental Health Authority, have continuously described homosexuals as persons suffering from, a psychological illness requiring treatment’.

CEPEHRG views comments as this as abusive of the human rights of LGBTIs and said it must be condemned.

“We are, therefore, calling on all well-meaning Ghanaians to desist from hate speech that in effect raises violence and aggression towards the LGBTI community,” a statement issued by the group to mark the celebration of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOT) said.

“While there has been recognition that sexual and gender diversity is not a mental health issue, there is, as well, increased recognition on the effects of such negative remarks by public figures and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Joining the world to celebrate this year’s International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, it is the wish of CEPEHRG that the Ghanaian LGBTI community will live a happy and healthy life just as any other Ghanaian deserves,” the statement said.
The group added: “On this day of celebration, CEPEHRG appreciates the efforts of all agencies and individuals helping to improve the lives of the LGBTI community in diverse ways. We urge them to do more to ensure that offenders are prosecuted to act as a deterrent to others. CEPEHRG will continue to advocate that LGBTI rights are human rights and support the community to reduce the risk of health and mental health issues, while reducing discrimination on LGBTI-led groups working for their wellbeing during research and documentation regarding their communities.”