A series of intimate photos posted online by a visiting South African queer couple at Ghana’s most iconic landmarks has ignited a wave of controversy and homophobic attacks, underscoring the urgent need for the Ghana Tourism Authority to safeguard the sanctity of national sites.

Lue and Rue shared images of themselves kissing and cuddling at Independence Square, the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, and the Aburi Botanical Gardens, under the banner of a “Show Ghana Love” campaign. Their caption framed the photos as an act of solidarity with Ghana’s queer community in the face of an impending anti-LGBTQIA+ bill that would criminalize same-sex relationships with up to three years in prison.

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A post shared by LUE & RUE (@lueandrue_)

While the couple said their goal was to meet hate with love and shine a spotlight on the plight of queer Ghanaians, their actions have been met with outrage. Many Ghanaians pointed out that the country’s Penal Code, dating from colonial rule, outlaws “unnatural carnal knowledge” and that the Supreme Court has upheld these laws as constitutional.

Section 104 criminalizes intimate relations between men with up to three years in prison. A separate bill under consideration would further restrict advocacy and public displays of affection, imposing harsh fines or jail time on supporters.

Local photographers and tourists who regularly visit these sites have raised concerns about rising fees, strict dress codes, and limited access enforced by site caretakers. Yet in this case, the same guardians of our heritage seemingly allowed Lue and Rue to stage provocative photo shoots at the Independence Arch and in front of Kwame Nkrumah’s statue. Critics ask how such actions could slip through amid rigorous enforcement of other rules.

The fallout has been swift. Online posts attacking the couple have crossed into hateful rhetoric, with some users calling for their prosecution. Advocates for queer Ghanaians fear that these images will fuel further harassment and justify the very bill the couple sought to protest. Instead of opening hearts, the stunt has deepened divisions and stoked homophobic fervor.

Ghana’s cultural treasures belong to every citizen and visitor. They represent our history and values. It is the responsibility of the Ghana Tourism Authority to ensure that these sites are respected.

Tour guides, security personnel, and caretakers must be trained to enforce clear guidelines on appropriate behaviour. They should intervene whenever visitors attempt stunts that violate cultural norms or jeopardize public order.

Similar incidents abroad offer lessons. In Mexico, a German tourist was arrested for climbing the Maya temple at Chichen Itza in defiance of preservation rules and faced worldwide condemnation. Ghana’s authorities can adopt the same zero-tolerance approach to protect our landmarks and prevent them from being used as political or social statements that undermine their dignity.

Advocacy against homophobia and support for LGBTQIA+ rights are vital. But effective campaigns must work within local laws and cultural contexts. Events like these demonstrate how easily a well-meaning protest can backfire, harming the very community it aims to uplift.

The Ghana Tourism Authority must act now. By reinforcing site regulations, providing staff training, and establishing clear protocols for visitors, it can preserve the sanctity of our monuments and ensure that all who come to Ghana do so with respect and understanding. Only then can our landmarks continue to stand as symbols of unity rather than flashpoints for division.

About the author:

Amelley Djosu is a communications strategist and media professional who crafts and elevates narratives that underscore heritage, innovation and social impact in Ghana’s creative sector.