I do not promote homosexuality - Nana Oye Lithur

Minister-designate for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Nana Oye Lithur, has clarified her stance on the rights of homosexuals in the country.

Nana Oye Lithur says her focus is to defend the fundamental rights of every Ghanaian, therefore emphasizing that homosexuals have rights that should be respected.

She categorically stated her position on gay rights is "personal" and stressed that she leaves the issue for debate in the public domain.

The issue concerning the rights of homosexuals have since caught public eye with several people raising red flags over its legitimacy.

This intricate topic has attracted divided attentions across the length and breadth of the country.

Though many Ghanaians seem to have condemned the acts of gays in the country, Nana Oye Lithur who doubles as a Gender Activist of the Human Rights Advocacy Centre, says what she has sought to do all this while is to play her role effectively.

She argued before the Appointments Committee chaired by the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Ebo Barton Oduro, that she being a human rights activist is mandated to protect the rights of all people.

Without mincing words, she asserted that she will not promote homosexuality when approved as a Minister.

Nana Oye Lithur appeared before the Appointments Committee today to go through the laid-down procedure as a ministerial nominee.

She was vetted amidst a barrage of questions; notably among them was her stance on homosexuality.

She denied ever advocating the legalization of homosexuality in the country.

Clarifying her point, she said she rather urged that the fundamental rights of every Ghanaian including homosexuals should be protected.

Nana Oye Lithurs' nomination was challenged by a civil society group who believed her appointment could have dire consequences on the nation.

The group which called itself the Concerned Clergy Association of Ghana dreaded her support for homosexuals could adversely affect the integrity of the nation.

But Nana Oye Lithur who would not take it lightly made it clear before the Committee that she will guard the rights of all Ghanaians and adhere to the constitutional provisions.

From: Adu Gyamfi Ameyaw/peacefmonline.com