“We Should Not Be Moved by These Threats” – Apostle Kuragu Defends Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

Former Chairman of the Apostolic Church, Apostle Abraham Ofori Kuragu (Esq.) has thrown his support behind Ghana’s proposed anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, describing it as a vital measure that reflects the values and beliefs of the majority of Ghanaians.

Speaking on the passage of the bill and its aftermath on Kessben Maakye show in Accra, Apostle Kuragu argued that the legislation remains unfinished business until it receives presidential assent.

“This bill is very essential to Ghanaians. We cannot conclude that the matter has ended because the President still has to sign it,” he said.

According to him, surveys conducted over the years have consistently shown that a significant majority of Ghanaians oppose LGBTQ+ practices. He claimed that between 78 and 90 percent of citizens are against the practice, making the bill a reflection of public sentiment.

The former church leader questioned why the legislation was introduced as a private member’s bill instead of being sponsored directly by the state, noting that much of its content remains unchanged from previous versions.

Apostle Kuragu, however, pointed to Clauses 9 and 10 of the bill as the main areas of concern, warning that certain exemptions contained in the legislation could create loopholes that may allow some individuals to indirectly promote LGBTQ+ activities if not carefully monitored.

“Most of the contents remain intact, but the exemptions require careful scrutiny,” he stated.

He expressed confidence that President John Dramani Mahama would carefully study the legislation and take an informed decision regarding its future.

The clergyman also urged critics and members of the Minority in Parliament to exercise patience and allow a thorough review process before drawing conclusions.

“It is not an Act yet. The necessary scrutiny must be done to ensure the final legislation addresses the concerns it seeks to tackle,” he said.

Touching on concerns that Ghana could lose international donor support if the bill becomes law, Apostle Kuragu dismissed such fears, arguing that national decisions should not be dictated by external pressure.

“The issue for many politicians is the fear of losing grants from international donors, but we should not be moved by these threats,” he stressed.

He further called on the government to manage public resources prudently, reduce excessive spending, and strengthen key sectors of the economy to reduce dependence on foreign aid.

According to him, greater fiscal discipline would enable Ghana to pursue policies based on its national interests without undue concern about donor reactions.

His comments add to the ongoing national debate surrounding the proposed anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, which continues to generate strong opinions from religious groups, civil society organizations, human rights advocates, and political leaders.