The chiefs and people of Suma traditional area in the Jaman North district, in Bono region, have enstooled Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, as Adasuakor chief.
Only warriors who have fought in fearsome battles are conferred with the Adasuakor stool name. According to the chiefs of Suma Traditional Area, Bagbin has been firm and has exhibited bravery in fighting external forces that are pushing against the passing of the anti-gay bill.
The Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill is currently at the consideration stage in Parliament.
The bill, when passed and signed into law by the President, criminalises same-sex practices, rights advocacy and related activities in Ghana. It will also provide protection and support for children and persons who are victims or accused of LGBTQ+.
The spectacular and culturally rich enstoolment of Speaker Bagbin was in appreciation for his promotion of Ghanaian culture.
The ceremony was attended by many dignitaries, including the President of Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, some members of Parliament and people of Suma Ahenkro, who came out in their numbers to witness the enstoolment.
Addressing the chiefs and people of Suma Ahenkro shortly after the coronation, Speaker Alban Bagbin said he will continue to stand by his position on the LGBTQ+ conversation and supervise a speedy passage of the anti-gay bill into law.
“I want to assure you that nobody can intimidate me when it comes to this bill. I have been to the House of Commons, I have been to the House of Lords, I have been to international conferences, and I’ve told them in very clear words that the law will be passed in Ghana,” he said.
He recounted that countries that accept same-sex relationships and their related activities are struggling to keep up with the health needs of persons practising it.
“I want all of you to be clear in your minds that this bill is what is going to reduce the cost to the nation. The cost of the LGBT is so huge that our health sector in Ghana cannot support it.”
