Human rights researcher, Dr Michael Gyan Nyarko has expressed his opposition to the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, stressing that his concerns go beyond the recent suggestions of the non-custodial sentences.

According to him, a democratic society must be open to a wide range of different perspectives and viewpoints even if people disagree with others' beliefs.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, February 17, he stated that it is unfair to punish people for actions or beliefs that others disagree with as this does not align with the values of democracy.

“It’s okay to disagree with such views or conduct but the idea that because you disagree with a particular view, then the people should suffer criminal consequences for it, is completely overbroad and it’s something that the democracy should not admit.”

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“If you disagree with LGBTQ rights because of your religion, that is fair enough, you should have the right as a religious person to say I disagree with it. I will protect your rights too to say that,” he said.

Dr Nyarko emphasised that there is a distinction between moral disapproval of an action and criminal punishment for that action.

Read also: Afenyo-Markin didn’t block the passage of anti-LGBTQ+bill – Sam George 

He noted that there are many things happening in society that people morally disapprove of, but that does not mean those actions should be criminalised.

“People might disapprove of smoking or drinking alcohol but to the extent that, you will say that, because I have a moral disagreement to that particular conduct, then the person should be criminally liable, it's wrong“he said.

Parliament, on Thursday, February 8, approved a three-to-five-year jail term for individuals who wilfully promote or sponsor LGBTQ activities, while those caught in the act are to be sentenced to a minimum of 6 months and a maximum of 3 years.

Read also: Parliament begins consideration of Anti-LGBT bill

Progress on the bill had stalled for months, evoking the angst of its proponents who had accused some Members of Parliament of colluding with pro-LGBT campaigners to delay its passage.

In a fiery press conference, lead campaigner for the anti-LGBT bill, Sam George, said "Those who have gone and gotten influenced by persons who have an interest in the LGBTQ should return whatever influence they have collected because we will fight, and the next time we address the media, I will mention names."