Catholic Bishops Call for National Dialogue on LGBTQ Debate

The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has called for a serious national dialogue on family values and LGBTQ-related issues, cautioning against attempts to downplay the importance of the ongoing debate.

In a statement signed by Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, Bishop of Sunyani and President of the Conference, the Bishops responded to remarks attributed to President John Dramani Mahama and Minister for Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu regarding the relevance of LGBTQ+ discussions in Ghana’s national agenda.

The statement explained that the Church’s intervention was intended to deepen national conversation, describing its role as both spiritual leaders and citizens invested in the country’s moral and social development.

The Bishops referenced comments reportedly made by President Mahama at the World Affairs Council, where he indicated that LGBTQ matters were not the most pressing issue facing the nation. They also cited remarks by Felix Kwakye Ofosu suggesting the issue was not a major priority for Ghanaians.

While acknowledging that the comments may have been aimed at highlighting economic challenges, the Conference warned that framing moral issues as secondary could undermine the ethical foundations of society. The statement stressed that matters affecting identity, family life, and social continuity should not be considered trivial.

Addressing socio-economic challenges such as inflation and unemployment, the Bishops rejected what they described as a false choice between economic development and moral responsibility, arguing that both are interconnected.

Reaffirming their position on marriage and family life, the Bishops said their understanding of family values centres on marriage as a lifelong union between a man and a woman, oriented toward mutual support and the upbringing of children. They described the family as a key pillar of social stability.

The statement also emphasised two principles: respect for the dignity of every individual and the protection of the traditional family structure. The Bishops condemned violence, hatred, and unjust discrimination against any person, regardless of sexual orientation or identity.

The Conference further addressed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, noting that it had followed its progress in Parliament and recalling what it described as an earlier assurance from the President regarding assent should the bill be passed.

They called on stakeholders including government, religious leaders, traditional authorities, and civil society to engage in respectful dialogue marked by seriousness and mutual understanding.

Concluding the statement, the Bishops urged restraint in public discourse and warned that dismissing sensitive moral debates could alienate sections of society. They emphasised that Ghana stands at a critical moment where economic goals intersect with moral identity, urging wisdom and unity in addressing the issue.