Proponents of the controversial Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values bill in Ghana are gearing up for a court battle with the Coalition of 18 Civil Society Groups, also known as the 'Big 18.'The Coalition, strongly opposing the legislation, is considering legal action if President Akufo-Addo signs the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law, arguing that it infringes on Ghana’s diverse cultural and religious landscape.

The Anti-LGBTQ+ bill, which aims to criminalize LGBTQI+ activities in Ghana, was unanimously passed by Parliament on February 28 after nearly three years of deliberation.The legislation proposes penalties of up to 3 years in jail for individuals and 5 years for promoters of such activities, including forming or funding LGBTQ+ groups.

Despite frustrations from MPs who sought to replace prison sentences with community service and counselling, the bill has now become a focal point for a legal clash.Board Chair of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development and Coalition member Audrey Gadzekpo expressed disappointment that Parliament did not consider the bill incompatible with the country’s democracy.

Proponent of the bill, Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, MP for Ho West, asserted their readiness for any legal challenge."We are prepared since the inception of this bill in 2021. In any case, we are prepared," he stated in an interview with JoyNews.

The 'Big 18' is set to make presentations to President Akufo-Addo, urging him not to assent to the passage of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.Prof Audrey Gadzekpo compared the legislation to criminal libel introduced by colonialists, expressing concerns that it might be misused against individuals, reminiscent of past legal controversies.

As both sides brace for a legal battle, the fate of the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill hangs in the balance, leaving the nation divided over issues of human rights, cultural values, and the trajectory of Ghana’s democratic ideals.