President John Dramani Mahama has urged the World Bank and IMF to refrain from interfering in Ghana’s policies on LGBTQ+ rights. He believes such institutions should focus on economic matters instead and emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement in legislative discussions. Mahama advocates for family values to be taught through education rather than solely through legislation.
President John Dramani Mahama has issued a warning to multilateral organizations such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), urging them to refrain from interfering in Ghana’s domestic matters, especially social issues like LGBTQ+ rights. In a recent interview with Bloomberg’s Next Africa, Mahama emphasized that these institutions should prioritize their economic responsibilities rather than attempting to influence Ghana’s cultural values.
Mahama asserted, “Multilateral institutions should avoid getting into cultural matters.” He remarked on the importance of cultural diversity, stating, “This is a diverse world. We have different cultures.” His remarks followed speculation that the World Bank and IMF may withdraw funding if Parliament passes a contentious anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
When asked about potential financial implications should the bill pass, Mahama expressed his firm stance: “If they decide to pull [funding], well, it’s their prerogative. But I don’t believe that multilateral institutions like the World Bank and IMF should include in their mandates how people behave culturally.” Currently, Ghana’s Parliament is deliberating on reviving this controversial legislation, which had previously expired due to legal challenges and lack of presidential approval.
Regarding the new version of the anti-LGBTQ bill, Mahama emphasized the need for extensive stakeholder consultation. He stated, “What we need is more stakeholder consultation to look at whatever new bill will come and make sure that we carry everybody on board.” He further underscored that preserving family values should focus more on education than merely legislative measures, advocating for teaching these values to children as they grow.
In summary, President Mahama’s remarks highlight the tension between Ghana’s cultural policies and external influences from organizations like the World Bank and IMF. He emphasizes the importance of protecting Ghana’s social values while advocating for comprehensive stakeholder engagement on legislation regarding LGBTQ+ rights. Mahama’s view asserts that the preservation of family values is best achieved through education rather than restrictive laws, calling for a respectful approach to cultural diversity.
Original Source: 3news.com
