Cardinal Turkson Advocates Against Criminalizing LGBT: Insights on Ghanaian Parliament’s Bill
In a compelling and thought-provoking interview on the BBC’s HARDtalk programme, Cardinal Peter Appiah Turkson, a prominent figure in the Catholic Church, delved into the intricacies of homosexuality and LGBT rights in Ghana. The cardinal’s bold stance challenges the recent legislative developments in the Ghanaian Parliament, where a bill aims to impose stricter penalties on LGBT practices.
Cardinal Turkson unequivocally expressed that homosexuality and being a part of the LGBT community should not be treated as criminal offenses. He ardently argued that legal repercussions should not be imposed on individuals based on their sexual orientation, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that respects cultural differences and does not force acceptance onto societies not yet ready to embrace such concepts.
During the interview, Cardinal Turkson underscored the critical role of education in fostering a better understanding of the LGBT community. He asserted that differentiating between what constitutes a crime and what does not requires a concerted effort in educating the public. This call for education comes at a pivotal time, given the ongoing discussions in the Ghanaian Parliament regarding legislation that could significantly impact the lives of LGBT individuals.
The interview also delved into the specifics of the bill currently under consideration in the Ghanaian Parliament. The proposed legislation seeks to impose harsher penalties on LGBT practices, including up to 10 years of imprisonment. Cardinal Turkson, however, distanced himself from the Ghanaian Parliament’s position, aligning himself with a more inclusive and understanding perspective that respects the diversity of sexual orientations.
Highlighting the cultural context within Ghana, Cardinal Turkson referenced the Akan language during the interview. He mentioned an expression that describes individuals exhibiting behaviors traditionally associated with the opposite gender. This cultural acknowledgment suggests that the phenomenon of diverse gender identities has been present in Ghanaian culture historically, challenging the notion that homosexuality is an external imposition.
Widely regarded as a potential candidate to become the first African Pope in approximately 1,500 years, Cardinal Turkson’s views on LGBT rights add a layer of complexity to his potential future leadership. His acknowledgment of the cultural nuances and historical acceptance of diverse gender expressions in Ghana positions him as a progressive and forward-thinking leader within the Catholic Church.
