The Anglican Primate of West Africa, Archbishop Cyril Kobina Ben-Smith, has publicly opposed anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Ghana during a broadcast interview. His sudden rejection of the parliamentary-approved legislation marks a stark reversal from his previous support for the harsh measures. Human rights organisations have heavily condemned the pending legislation, describing it as a cruel bill that violates fundamental freedoms.
The news came after the Ghanaian parliament passed the severe Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill earlier this year. This controversial legislation punishes the promotion, sponsorship, or support of same-sex activities with up to five years in prison. It also mandates a strict duty to report prohibited acts, putting friends and family members at risk of prosecution.