#Anti-LGBTQ Bill: Afenyo-Markin Blocks 3rd Reading, Stating, “Imprisonment for Sexuality is Unjust,” Opposing Custodial Sentencing

The Deputy Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has prevented the third reading of the Anti-LGBTQ bill.

Had it not been for his intervention, today would have witnessed the approval of the contentious legislation.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin clarifies that he does not categorically oppose the principles of the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values bill but in fact, he supports it.

However, the Effutu legislator expresses opposition to the provision that could result in the imprisonment of individuals accused of engaging in or promoting LGBTQ activities..

“The essence of this motion is to afford this august house the opportunity to thoroughly consider amendments that are proposed in the bill with the view of substituting community service for incarceration,” he said.

He argues that the punitive measures outlined in the bill would not contribute to the rehabilitation of the offenders.

“The issue before us is behavioral, and it is my humble view that in dealing with behavioural matters, incarceration is not the solution. It makes the matter worse.

He explained that “to jail a person for his/her sexuality will not be the solution in maintaining our Ghanaian family values and ensuring proper human sexual rights.”

Meanwhile, Sam George, a sponsor of the bill, stated that Mr. Markin’s argument lacks merit.