Anti-LGBTQ bill: AG request live coverage of SC hearing
Mr Godfred Yeboah Dame, Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, has formally appealed to the Chief Justice for live coverage of the legal proceedings concerning the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, widely known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
His request aims to promote transparency and public engagement in cases challenging the bill's passage and potential assent.
In a formal plea addressed to the Chief Justice, Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame advocated for media access, including radio and television coverage, to all proceedings related to the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.
He emphasised the significance of transparency in matters of public interest, particularly those pertaining to legislative decisions impacting human rights and societal values.
The cases highlighted by Dame include Dr Amanda Odoi v The Speaker of Parliament and Another, Richard Dela Sky v The Parliament of Ghana and Another, Mr. Paul Boama-Sefa v The Speaker of Parliament and Another, and Dr Prince Obiri-Korang v The Attorney-General.
Mr Dame underscored the importance of media coverage in fostering accountability and trust in the administration of justice.
Meanwhile, broadcast journalist Richard Dela Sky and researcher Dr Amanda Odoi are scheduled to present their respective lawsuits challenging the constitutionality of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill before the Supreme Court on May 8, 2024.
Their legal actions have effectively halted the bill's progression from Parliament to the Presidency, pending the court's ruling.
Mr Richard Dela Sky, also a private legal practitioner, specifically contests Parliament's constitutional authority in passing the bill, alleging violations of the 1992 Constitution.
He seeks various reliefs, including a declaration that the Speaker of Parliament contravened constitutional provisions by allowing the bill's passage.
The bill, passed by Parliament on February 28, 2024, prohibits LGBTQ activities and their promotion, advocacy, and funding.
President Nana Addo Dankwah Akufo-Addo has refrained from assenting to the bill, awaiting the Supreme Court's decision on its constitutionality.
In his writ, Mr Sky seeks several declarations and orders, aiming to restrain the Speaker of Parliament and the Clerk to Parliament from presenting the bill for presidential assent and prevent enforcement of its provisions criminalizing same-sex relationships and related advocacy efforts.
The Attorney General's call for live coverage reflects the growing significance of the legal challenges surrounding the anti-LGBTQ+ bill in Ghana.
As the Supreme Court prepares to hear the cases brought by concerned citizens, the outcomes hold profound implications for human rights and legal governance in the country.
Source: Classfmonline.com/Cecil Mensah
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