Nii Kpakpo Samoa Addo, a private legal practitioner, has clarified the intentions behind South Dayi MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor’s lawsuit on the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.
Addo explained that the lawsuit is not aimed at coercing President Akufo-Addo into assenting to the bill but rather ensuring adherence to the provisions of the 1992 constitution.
In an interview on The Law on JoyNews, Addo emphasized that the lawsuit was initiated to ensure that the legislative process proceeds smoothly without any obstacles. He highlighted that the Speaker of Parliament is duty-bound to carry the bill from Parliament to the Presidency, and the President must either sign the bill or refer it to the necessary bodies as per Article 106 of the constitution.
Addo emphasized the importance of setting a legal precedent to avoid future ambiguities regarding the acceptance or rejection of bills by the President. He mentioned that the court order sought in the lawsuit aims to compel the Speaker and the President to fulfill their constitutional duties without any delays or hindrances.
The Accra High Court recently dismissed a request to compel President Akufo-Addo to receive the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill, citing other pending legal suits that could impact the matter. Despite this setback, Addo remains optimistic about seeking clarity through the courts on democratic issues like these.
The passage of the Anti-LGBTQ Bill by Parliament has sparked various reactions, with concerns raised by entities like CHRAJ regarding potential discrimination and infringement of constitutional rights. The Finance Ministry has advised against the President signing the bill, citing possible financial repercussions for the country.
In response to these developments, President Akufo-Addo has assured the international community of Ghana’s commitment to upholding human rights and the rule of law. He reiterated that no action would be taken on the bill until the legal challenges are addressed by the Supreme Court.
Additionally, the Office of the President has requested Parliament to refrain from transmitting the bill for the President’s assent due to pending legal applications before the Supreme Court. The Attorney-General has advised against any action on the bill until the legal issues are resolved.
The unfolding legal battle over the Anti-LGBTQ Bill underscores the complexities of democratic processes and the role of the judiciary in interpreting and upholding the constitution.
