Pressure Mounts on Chief Justice as Arise Ghana Reschedules Protest Over LGBTQ+ Ruling


Arise Ghana, an advocacy group, has voiced strong concerns over the delay in a ruling on the LGBTQ+ case currently before the Supreme Court. The group, during a press conference in Accra, called on Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo to expedite the process, citing the national interest in the matter.


Hon. Sam George, a leading member of the group and MP for Ningo Prampram, drew attention to comments made by Supreme Court Justice Yoni Kulendi, who earlier expressed strong opposition to LGBTQ+ practices in Ghana. George emphasized that this demonstrates an urgent need for swift judicial action.


"Justice Yoni Kulendi made it clear that Ghana will not succumb to pressure from international communities on this issue," George said. He added that delays in addressing the case could lead to further societal concerns, urging the Chief Justice to act promptly.


Arise Ghana’s convener, Rex Omar, echoed the call for action, urging the Chief Justice to clarify her position on the LGBTQ+ debate. Omar stressed the importance of transparency, particularly given that 93% of Ghanaians reportedly support the Anti-LGBTQ Bill. "It is crucial that the Chief Justice respects the overwhelming opinion of Ghanaians," Omar said.


In addition to pressing the judiciary, Sam George announced that the group's "Family Values March," originally slated for September 17, 2024, has been postponed. The decision was made to avoid clashing with a separate protest organized by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) concerning the voters' register. The march has been rescheduled for October 8, 2024.


Edem Senanu, Co-chair of the Citizens Movement Against Corruption and a key member of Arise Ghana, also spoke at the event. He expressed disappointment over the eight-week silence since the case was filed in court, calling on the Chief Justice to treat the matter with urgency, even if it means working during the judiciary's vacation period.


“The courts in other countries sit during legal vacations for matters of national importance. The LGBTQ+ issue is critical to Ghanaians, and the judiciary must prioritize it,” Senanu remarked, urging the Chief Justice to demonstrate her commitment to the people’s aspirations.


The group reiterated its commitment to pushing for a ruling, with the rescheduled march expected to increase pressure on the judiciary to act.








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