Lead counsel Ernest Arkoh, representing researcher Dr Amanda Odoi, has petitioned the court for an interlocutory injunction to prevent Parliament from forwarding the controversial anti-gay bill to President Akufo-Addo for approval.
Arguing before the court, Arkoh cited Article 108 of Ghana’s 1992 constitution, stipulating that bills affecting public funds must be introduced by the President or on his behalf. He contended that the legislation, originating as a private member’s bill, imposes financial implications on the public purse, thereby exceeding Parliament’s constitutional mandate.
During the hearing, Arkoh underscored the potentially irreversible harm should the bill proceed to presidential assent, emphasizing the societal repercussions and threats to the dignity of LGBTQ individuals in Ghana.
“Only an interlocutory injunction can effectively prevent Parliament from transmitting the bill to the President,” Arkoh asserted, acknowledging ongoing legal challenges surrounding the contentious legislation.
Dr Amanda Odoi, affiliated with the University of Cape Coast, and media personality Richard Sky jointly challenge the constitutionality of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Sky seeks nullification of the bill, alleging constitutional breaches and violations of fundamental human rights.
Specifically, Dr. Odoi aims to secure a court order barring the Speaker, Attorney General, and Clerk of Parliament from forwarding the bill to President Akufo-Addo for his approval amidst escalating legal and societal debates surrounding its enactment.
