The Deputy Majority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has voiced his opposition to the implementation of custodial sentences for individuals involved in LGBTQ+ activities.

On Thursday, February 8, Parliament approved a measure imposing a three-to-five-year jail term for those promoting or sponsoring LGBTQ activities, with individuals caught in the act facing a minimum of 6 months to 3 years in prison.

During the clause-by-clause amendment of the bill concerning the promotion of proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values, Mr Afenyo-Markin argued against punitive measures that do not facilitate rehabilitation.

He expressed concern over the state of the country's prisons, suggesting that they are ill-equipped for effectively rehabilitating offenders.

"It is my contention that given the state of our prisons, a custodial sentence will not lead to the rehabilitation of the offender if he is convicted; it cannot be an option.

"If indeed we are promoting Ghanaian family values, then our Ghanaian family values will not entail the consequence of those who breach them being destroyed in society."

Meanwhile, the bill's lead proponent, Sam Nartey George, clarified that the focus is on curbing advocacy for LGBTQ+ activities rather than policing private behaviour.

He highlighted the distinction in punishment, with those caught in the act facing lesser sentences compared to those actively promoting or supporting the LGBTQ+ agenda.