A political scientist at the University of Ghana, Dr Asah Asante, says Ghana must be ready to face potential international consequences if it proceeds with the controversial anti-LBGTQ+ Bill, especially after President John Mahama indicated he would assent to it should Parliament approve it.
Speaking on the AM Show, Dr Asante warned that decisions taken within a “chaotic and bullying” global system often come with pressure from powerful actors.
“If you take resources from people to support your country’s affairs, they can push all manner of things down your throat,” he said, describing the situation as one Ghana must approach with caution.
He explained that while he is not opposed to any law passed through legitimate democratic processes, Ghana must weigh the broader geopolitical implications before taking a decisive stance.
Dr Asante said the country’s safest path is to strengthen its domestic revenue capacity to reduce external influence. He referenced recent gains in local revenue mobilisation, noting that such progress “should give us the impetus that we can do this if we get committed to it.”
His comments follow renewed debate on the LGBTQ+ Bill after President Mahama, at a meeting with the Christian council of Ghana reaffirmed that he would sign it into law if it reaches his desk, a position that has intensified public, political, and diplomatic discussions around the legislation.