SODOMY AND THE SOCIETY

Is it time to accept sodomy in society? 

In Ghana, sodomy is generally referred to as two males performing anal or oral sex and is highly frowned upon in our various communities. 

It is believed that indulging in such practices is a sin against our religion and culture, brings complete shame to the culprits and their families, and can lead to severe consequences ,if one is caught practicing. 

Authorities combating sodomy

Criminal Code Amendment.

Section 104 of Ghana’s Criminal Code(Amendment) Act, 2003 says whoever has unnatural carnal knowledge with consent is guilty of a misdemeanor; while without consent is guilty of a first-degree felony. 

Two men caught having sexual intercourse in a car in public.

Civilians often take matters into their own hands when culprits are caught engaging in sodomy. They usually beat the culprits to the pulp, and sometimes cause severe harm to culprits. 

A civilian complaining bitterly about the rise of sodomy in his neighborhood.

Human Rights 

People protesting against the violent attacks on the LGBTQ community. 

 LGBTQ rights are heavily suppressed in Ghana. The majority of Ghana's population holds anti-LGBT sentiments. Physical and violent homophobic attacks against LGBT people are common and are often encouraged by the media and religious and political leaders.

Despite the Constitution guaranteeing a right to freedom of speech, expression and assembly to Ghanaian citizens, these fundamental rights are actively denied to LGBTQ people.

There are a lot of discussions surrounding the issue of the rise of sodomy in our communities and some questions remain unanswered.

How can we eradicate this practice peacefully within our communities? Is it time to accept this act into our societies? 

Report by Anna Maria Zarbo