John Dramani Mahama has called on international partners to respect Ghana’s position on LGBTQ issues, stressing that the country’s policies are shaped by its Constitution, cultural values, and democratic processes.
Speaking during his visit to the United States, where he received the International Statesperson Award from the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, Mahama said decisions on such matters reflect the collective will of Ghanaians rather than unilateral government action.
What the eventual nature of the bill would be, nobody can second-guess Parliament, and I, as President, cannot anticipate Parliament in respect of that bill, he said.
He clarified that the proposed anti-LGBTQ legislation currently before Parliament is a private member’s bill and not a government-sponsored initiative. According to him, Ghana’s democratic system is actively engaging citizens through consultations and public submissions.
Civil Society Organisations are presenting their papers to Parliament, and I believe that the representatives of the people will make the will of Ghanaians reflect in whatever eventually comes out, he added.
Democracy and due process
Mahama emphasised that Ghana remains committed to due process, highlighting the role of democratic institutions in shaping national policy outcomes.
He pointed to the independence of the judiciary as a key pillar of Ghana’s governance framework.
We have a relatively independent judiciary that we have confidence will adjudicate matters fairly, he said, adding that tolerance within the political environment has strengthened the country’s democratic reputation.
Context: international scrutiny
The President’s remarks come amid heightened international attention following a decision by Lincoln University to withdraw plans to confer an honorary degree on him. The university cited concerns from sections of its community over his perceived stance on LGBTQ issues.
Mahama’s comments signal an attempt to balance domestic political realities with international expectations, underscoring Ghana’s insistence on sovereignty in policymaking while maintaining engagement with global partners.
Source: Asaase Radio
