The Paramount Chief of the Suma Traditional Council in the Bono Region, Odeneho Dr. Afram Brempong III, has endorsed the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill emphasizing the importance of preserving Ghana’s cultural traditions.
In a resolute show of support, Odeneho Brempong III argued the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill 2021, is crucial for safeguarding Ghana’s future generations, just as their forefathers protected and bequeathed the nation’s traditions and cultures to the present day.
The Paramount Chief expressed his support for the bill during a courtesy call on the Speaker of Parliament, Alban S.K. Bagbin, on Tuesday 14th July 2023.
He raised concerns about the potential disruption of gender-specific rites roles if the state does not pass a law to halt the activities of LGBTQ+.
Citing an example, Odeneho Brempong III, explained that a young woman who comes of age and is to be installed as queen mother undergoes specific traditional rites.
He said, “During this process, elderly women from royal families impart knowledge on their roles and conduct, particularly regarding their behavior in public.”
“These rites are exclusively conducted by women, as they involve examining the body of the candidate.”
“However, as the ongoing debate unfolds, questions have been raised regarding the implications of recognizing LGBTQ+ identities in the context of traditional roles.”
“What if a male royal were to identify as a woman and expresses a desire to become a queen mother,” he quizzed.
This scenario, he said, presents a complex challenge as the rites are strictly reserved for women.
He argued that altering these customs would undermine the cultural heritage of the country and disrupt established practices.
While acknowledging the importance of human rights, Odeneho Brempong III drew a parallel to other activities that are not sanctioned by law.
He argued that just as the state does not enact laws to protect thieves or permit individuals to engage in physical violence, preserving traditional values and customs is equally imperative.
He asserted that supporting the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill is essential for upholding Ghana’s cultural identity and ensuring the continuity of age-old traditions
The Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill has sparked intense discussions across the nation, prompting various perspectives on human rights and cultural practices.
The Paramount Chief commended the Speaker and Parliament for successfully maintaining an atmosphere of respectful debate during the session.
He stressed that the unanimous support shown by all 275 parliamentarians for the bill further solidifies the nation’s commitment to combating LGBTQ+ activities.