‘Don’t belittle our intelligence’ – Methodist Bishop criticises Kwakye Ofosu over LGBTQ comment

Professor Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu, the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church, Ghana, responded very strongly to some remarks made by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of State for Government Communications, who stated that LGBTQ+ issues are not of any significant concern for Ghanaians. Discussions related to LGBTQ+ equality are no longer part of the everyday concerns of average citizens, there are major challenges in wider society and the government is busy focusing on them.

On Tuesday, April 7, Mr Kwakye Ofosu addressed The Pulse saying the issue does not rank among the top concerns of Ghanaians. “This is not a major issue. It’s another waste of time. You know, NPP, they specialise in wasting the time of everybody,” he said. This leads to one question which he asked us: Why has the subject come to the forefront of national debate when a lot of people are more focused on just getting enough of a livelihood and doing well economically? “When Ghanaians wake up, they are mainly concerned with how to get to work and how to make a living. Is that bill every Ghanaian’s No. 1 priority? It is not. It has no meaning,” he went on to argue.

A relatively quick reply on Wednesday, April 8, Prof Asamoah-Gyadu took to Facebook to question the basis of the Minister’s claim, stating: “Which Ghanaians? So which Ghanaian is this minister referring to here?” He called for evidence to substantiate the claim, pointing out the absence of any credible poll or public survey on the matter. “In any case, did we miss a poll on this issue? If your position has changed, just clarify. Don’t underestimate the public’s intelligence. Please be reasonable,” he wrote.

Editor:

Obiri-Yeboah