Mahama on potential fallout of Anti-LGBTQ Bill: IMF and World Bank should not get involved in cultural issues

President John Dramani Mahama has asserted that multilateral institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank should not interfere in cultural matters, including Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly referred to as the anti-LGBTQ bill.

In an interview with Bloomberg TV, President Mahama argued that the global financial bodies must avoid cultural imposition, adding that diversity in traditions and beliefs should be respected worldwide.

“I believe that multilateral institutions should avoid getting into cultural matters. This is a diverse world. We have different cultures and so I don’t think multilateral institutions should include, you know, cultural imposition as part of their mandate. I don’t agree with that,” he stated.

Addressing the possibility of reviving the bill, which expired earlier this year, Mahama emphasised the need for broad stakeholder consultation before any new legislation is introduced in Parliament.

“The old bill expired because it was not assented to by the President. There was a legal challenge. Eventually, the legal challenge was dismissed. So it means that the President could assent to it but it’s expired,” he explained.

He further stressed the importance of reviewing any new proposal thoroughly, ensuring that all perspectives are considered in shaping Ghana’s legal and social policies.

When asked about concerns that international institutions and donors might withdraw funding if Ghana enacts the bill, Mahama responded firmly, stating that such decisions are at the discretion of those institutions.

“If they decide to pull it, well, it’s their prerogative. But I don’t believe that multilateral institutions such as the World Bank and the IMF should include in their mandates how people behave culturally,” he declared.

Ghana’s anti-LGBTQ bill, which was passed by Parliament in February 2024, faced legal challenges before expiring without presidential assent. The Supreme Court recently struck out a review application challenging the constitutionality of the bill, effectively clearing the way for a fresh legislative process if lawmakers choose to reintroduce it.

The bill seeks to criminalise LGBTQ+ activities, with offenders facing a minimum three-year jail term and a maximum of five years if convicted. It also prohibits pro-gay advocacy and funding for LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana.

As discussions around the bill’s revival gain momentum, Mahama’s remarks indicate a measured approach that considers Ghana’s cultural values, while acknowledging international concerns. However, he remains resolute that Ghana’s cultural policies should not be dictated by external financial institutions.