Investigative journalist questions prioritization of anti-LGBTQ+ laws over corruption in Africa.

African governments have been criticized for prioritizing the fight against homosexuality over corruption by investigative journalist, Manasseh Azure Awuni. In a Facebook post, he expressed his difficulty in understanding why governments on the continent have passed harsh legislation against LGBTQ+ practices instead of enforcing existing laws that punish corruption.

Awuni raised a valid point, asking why politicians who openly steal from their people can still win elections while supporting LGBTQ+ would guarantee a defeat. Currently, several African countries have taken a strong stance against LGBTQ+ practices, passing stiff legislation against it. Uganda’s parliament recently passed a sweeping anti-LGBTQ+ law with strict penalties for homosexuality, including the death penalty in cases of aggravated homosexuality.

Ghana is also following suit with a bill seeking to criminalize LGBTQ+ practices, with possible jail time and other forms of punishment for violators. While the bill has received public acceptance, it has also attracted criticisms from human rights activists and the LGBTQ+ community.

During her recent visit to Ghana, the Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris, expressed concerns about the bill, describing LGBTQ+ practice as a human right. The passing of anti-LGBTQ+ laws raises concerns about the priorities of African governments, particularly when corruption is still a significant issue across the continent.