President John Dramani Mahama has described the LGBTQ+ issue as “highly emotive and sensitive,” stating that while it has sparked a complex national conversation, it is not the most important challenge facing Ghana at this moment.
Speaking at the Presidential Dialogue with Civil Society Organisations at the Jubilee House, President Mahama emphasized that Ghana is still grappling with the provision of basic needs including education, healthcare, jobs, food, clothing, and shelter.
“I explained during my recent engagement with the World Affairs Council that it is not the most important issue we face as a nation,” the President stated.
“We are still grappling with the provisions of basic needs of education, health care, jobs, food, clothing, and shelter.”
He acknowledged that the private member’s bill introduced in Parliament on LGBTQ+ issues has sparked a complex and sensitive national conversation. The President outlined his government’s position as being guided by three pillars: the constitution, respect for human rights and dignity of all persons, and the need to preserve social cohesion.
“While there are strong and differing views within our society, we believe that these issues must be addressed through democratic processes, our core values, dialogue, and the rule of law,” President Mahama said.
The President also addressed recent international reactions, specifically mentioning Lincoln University’s withdrawal of their honorary doctorate conferred upon him.
He described these developments as underscoring the importance of continued engagement and mutual respect.
“These developments underscore the importance of continued engagement and mutual respect, and of situating our national decisions within our constitutional and cultural context,” he explained.
President Mahama assured that Ghana will continue to uphold its democratic values while engaging constructively with the international community. He reiterated Ghana’s dedication to upholding human dignity, equality, and safeguarding vulnerable groups on matters of human rights, gender, and inclusion.
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com
