Deputy Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, James Gyakye Quayson, has publicly reaffirmed his strong opposition to LGBTQ rights in Ghana, stating unequivocally that he does not and will not support any efforts aimed at promoting or legalising such practices in the country.

Appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, July 25, the Assin North MP cited cultural and personal convictions as the foundation for his position, emphasizing that his values remain consistent despite decades of living abroad.

“As a true African, I’m not in support of LGBTQ,” Mr. Quayson said. “I was in Canada when LGBTQ was liberalised, but I was one of the people who campaigned against it. So I will never be in support of it.”

The nominee, who spent 42 years in Canada before returning to Ghana to enter public life, stressed that his views align with the beliefs of many Ghanaians and reflect long-standing African cultural norms.

His comments come amid renewed national and international debate over LGBTQ rights in Ghana, particularly in the context of the controversial Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill—commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ bill.

Introduced in Parliament in 2021, the bill seeks to criminalise not only same-sex relationships—which are already illegal under Ghana’s existing laws but also the advocacy, promotion, and funding of LGBTQ activities. It also proposes criminal penalties for individuals who identify as LGBTQ and for public displays of same-sex affection.

The bill has drawn widespread support from traditional leaders, religious groups, and a significant portion of the public, who argue it upholds Ghanaian family values and protects cultural identity. However, it has also attracted strong criticism from international human rights organisations and several foreign governments, who view the bill as a violation of fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, association, and identity.

Although Parliament passed the bill in early 2024, former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo withheld assent, citing legal and constitutional concerns. The legislation has since been returned to Parliament for further review and action.

Mr. Quayson’s remarks reinforce the position of several Ghanaian lawmakers who have vocally supported the bill and publicly opposed LGBTQ rights in the country.

As Ghana navigates the complex intersection of cultural values, human rights, and international diplomacy, the issue remains one of the most polarising on the national agenda—drawing passionate support and sharp opposition both at home and abroad.