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Sam George’s ministry presents a major threat to media freedom and LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana

May 28, 2025

Samuel Nartey George's appointment as Ghana's minister of communication, digital technology, and innovation grants him significant control over the country's media landscape through his oversight of the National Communications Authority (NCA). His position is particularly controversial due to his sponsorship of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Act, 2024, which criminalizes LGBTQ+ activities and advocacy with prison sentences of five to ten years. The legislation's broad language potentially allows for prosecution of media outlets that share content supportive of LGBTQ+ rights, creating a chilling effect on free expression.

Who is affected

  • LGBTQ+ individuals and organizations in Ghana
  • Media outlets, broadcasting companies, and digital platforms
  • Journalists and content creators
  • Advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and human rights
  • Ghanaian citizens whose access to information and free expression may be restricted
  • Democracy advocates and civil society organizations

What action is being taken

  • Samuel Nartey George has been appointed as minister of communication, digital technology, and innovation
  • George and colleagues have reintroduced the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Act to parliament
  • Parliament has been recalled from recess
  • The National Communications Authority is monitoring content across various media platforms
  • The government is implementing regulatory measures that could restrict media freedom

Why it matters

  • The legislation criminalizes LGBTQ+ activities and advocacy with severe prison sentences
  • Media outlets face potential prosecution if they host content supporting LGBTQ+ rights
  • The broad and vague language of the Act allows wide interpretation of what constitutes "propaganda" or "promotion"
  • The concentration of power enables potential suppression of dissenting voices and marginalization of vulnerable groups
  • Previous use of surveillance tools like Pegasus spyware raises concerns about potential monitoring of political adversaries
  • The situation threatens fundamental democratic principles of free expression and access to information in Ghana

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Global Voices