Richard Dela Sky, a private legal practitioner, has clarified the motivations behind his legal challenge against the recent enactment of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill by parliament, emphasizing that his actions are rooted in upholding the Ghanaian constitution and protecting fundamental human rights.
Sky’s legal team submitted an application to the Supreme Court on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, seeking a declaration that the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly known as the anti-gay bill, is null and void. He argues that the bill’s provisions raise concerns regarding potential infringements on constitutional rights.
In a statement, Sky explained, “This action is not a declaration of my personal stance on LGBTQI+ individuals per se, but a conscientious effort to ensure the strict adherence to and protection of the constitutional framework that governs our society.”
He further outlined the specific constitutional articles under which he is challenging the bill, including Article 33(5) of the 1992 Constitution, along with Articles 12(1) and (2), 15(1), 17(1) and (2), 18(2), and 21(1) (a) (b) (d) and (e).
Sky urged Ghanaians to support his cause, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the constitution and democratic values in Ghana.
In addition to his legal challenge, Sky co-founded the Article II Initiative (a2i), a think tank dedicated to protecting and defending the Ghanaian Constitution and promoting a robust constitutional culture in the country. He sees this legal action as part of a broader effort to uphold democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Ghana and beyond.