By: Emmanuel Amoah
Supreme Court judge nominee Professor Richard Frimpong Oppong addressed concerns raised by lawmakers about his previous research on LGBTQI+ issues and its potential influence on his judicial decisions during his nomination hearing.
Lawmakers expressed apprehension that Professor Oppong’s work might affect his impartiality in cases involving the LGBTQI+ community. In response, he clarified that his research was focused on understanding the complexities surrounding LGBTQI+ matters and exploring how to regulate their activities within Ghana’s legal framework, not on promoting LGBTQI+ rights.
Professor Oppong reassured the committee, stating, “I will not be a danger to anti-LGBTQI activities because of my research work. My research was not to promote LGBTQI but to understand the issues and to know how the law can be used to regulate the activities of LGBTQI+ persons in Ghana.”
His statements aimed to ease concerns about his commitment to impartiality if appointed to the Supreme Court. However, this exchange underscored the ongoing debate in Ghana regarding LGBTQI+ rights, especially in light of recent legislative efforts to further criminalize LGBTQI+ activities.
Professor Oppong’s nomination is pending parliamentary approval. If confirmed, he will assume a key role on the Supreme Court, influencing Ghana’s legal stance on LGBTQI+ issues and other significant matters.
