File photo of the Supreme Court of Ghana
The Supreme Court of Ghana has approved a request from the Attorney General’s Department for additional time to submit its statement of case in the legal proceedings involving journalist Richard Dela Sky and the Speaker of Parliament. The case challenges the constitutionality of the Ghanaian Family Values Bill, which has sparked widespread debate since its introduction.
During the court proceedings on Thursday, October 31, 2024, the State Attorney requested an order for the Speaker’s legal team to provide an analysis of the bill’s financial implications. The State Attorney argued that understanding the economic impact of the proposed legislation is crucial, as it could significantly influence the case’s outcome. This financial analysis aims to clarify how the bill might affect the economy and public services.
Richard Dela Sky, the complainant, contends that the bill violates key human rights enshrined in the Ghanaian Constitution, such as equality and protection from discrimination. He argues that the Family Values Bill could lead to increased discrimination against marginalized groups, particularly the LGBTQ+ community, and would undermine individual dignity.
Mr. Sky is also seeking an order from the Supreme Court to prevent the President from endorsing the bill, asserting that doing so would infringe on constitutional protections for the rights and freedoms of Ghanaians. His concerns underscore the potential consequences of the bill on the rights of vulnerable populations within the country.
