Professor Benedicta Yayra Fosu-Mensah, a communications official with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has stated that President John Dramani Mahama’s position on issues related to LGBTQ+ rights has not changed since he took office. She made the remarks in response to comments and speculation circulating on social media and in political discussions about how the administration views LGBTQ+ matters.
According to Fosu-Mensah, the president continues to respect Ghana’s cultural values and societal norms on matters of sexuality and gender, and is guided by national laws and the will of Parliament when considering related legislation. She said that the administration’s approach remains consistent and that any suggestion of a shift in position is unfounded.
Her statement came amid discussions about the anti-LGBTQ+ bill that Parliament has considered, which proposes stricter penalties for LGBTQ+ activities. Fosu-Mensah explained that President Mahama intends to respect the legislative process and Ghana’s cultural context, and that his position on LGBTQ+ issues is rooted in those principles.
The remarks also responded indirectly to claims by some political figures suggesting that Mahama would not hesitate to sign anti-LGBTQ+ legislation once it passes through Parliament. Fosu-Mensah’s comments aimed to clarify that the president’s stance has been consistent and that he will act in line with Ghanaian laws and the expectations of citizens.
The discussion about Ghana’s LGBTQ+ policy has attracted significant attention, especially as the Parliament and public commentators engage over cultural values, human rights, and the content of proposed legislation in the country. Ghana’s legal framework currently criminalises same-sex relations, and public debate on LGBTQ+ matters has been ongoing over the past several years.
