The United States Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has received criticism from the Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Hon. Sam George for her remarks on the anti-LGBTQI bill.
He asserted that the US Ambassador’s worries about Ghana’s ability to draw foreign investment if the bill is passed are unfounded.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) lawmaker claimed Ghana is a nation with values that will uphold its integrity in a social media post.
He argued that the ambassador’s worries simply show that American investors are drawn to investing in nations with no moral principles.
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“You have expressed fears that investors from the US would not find Ghana attractive if we as Ghanaians uphold our values and reject the depravity of LGBTQI. I find that really surprising.
“Are American investors looking to invest in a country and with partners who have no values? I thought the basic test of a potential partner is integrity and values. Ghana, as you know, is very intolerant of religious extremism. Has that made American investors wary of Ghana as an intolerant investment destination?” The MP quizzed.
He continued by saying that the anti-LGBT legislation that the Ghanaian Parliament would soon pass is comparable to that of some American states and should not be used as a deterrent any investors.
“Let me reassure you and the U.S. Embassy Ghana that Ghana remains welcoming and open to American investors as a stable, viable democracy. We welcome investors who value the principles of integrity and respect the cultural values of their partners.
“I am confident it should not be a worry as our intended legislation is NOT different from American laws in states like Florida and Kentucky. I believe the US Supreme Court agrees largely with Ghana’s position,” he said.
While several American businesses are planning to invest in Ghana, according to Ambassador Palmer, any law that discriminates against LGBTQ+ people could harm Ghana’s reputation and deter investors.
