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Ghana's President, John Dramani Mahama, has firmly stated that international financial institutions, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, should refrain from intervening in Ghana's internal discussions regarding the proposed anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. He emphasized that these institutions should focus on their economic mandates rather than influencing the nation's cultural and societal values.
The bill, which seeks to intensify penalties against LGBTQ+ activities, was reintroduced in February 2025 after previously passing in February 2024 but not being enacted before former President Nana Akufo-Addo's term ended. The legislation proposes increasing the penalty for same-sex acts from three to five years imprisonment and criminalizing support for LGBTQ+ activities. This move has faced criticism from LGBTQ+ activists and raised concerns about potential economic repercussions. Ghana's finance ministry has warned that the bill could jeopardize significant financial aid from the World Bank and the IMF.
President Mahama has expressed his commitment to passing the bill but suggests that it should be reintroduced by the government rather than parliament. He believes that current global political trends favor conservative values. However, he cautioned that the IMF and World Bank should not use financial leverage to influence Ghana's domestic policies.
In related developments, President Mahama is seeking changes to the existing IMF agreement, aiming to reverse economic stagnation while maintaining fiscal discipline. He plans to lead a two-day "national economic dialogue" in Accra to discuss potential adjustments to the $3 billion, three-year IMF program established in 2023.
Despite international concerns, President Mahama has reiterated that Ghana will not abandon its IMF deal but seeks modifications to better align with the country's economic realities. He emphasizes the importance of addressing domestic issues, such as excessive taxes and energy sector challenges, without external interference.
By : Isaac Fiifi Klotey Mensah