By David Afum

Sheikh Zakari Mohammed, a respected religious leader in Kumasi, Ghana, has officially disowned his son, Misbawo Zakari, for engaging in a same-sex relationship.

This disownment was formalized via a statutory declaration in a Kumasi High Court under Ghana’s Statutory Declarations Act, 1971 (Act 389).

Despite repeated attempts to counsel his son, the Imam stated that Misbawo continued the relationship, which culminated in a near-lynching incident by a group of Muslim youth.

The Imam cited reputational damage and moral considerations as reasons for his decision and stated that the entire family had cut ties with Misbawo.

One family member, Shakur Illiasu, opposed this disownment and assisted Misbawo in fleeing the country, citing severe threats to his life. Illiasu condemned the parents’ actions and defended his brother’s right to live freely.

Ghanaian state actors, have shown unwillingness or inability to protect LGBTQ+ persons.

Additionally, Ghana criminalizes homosexuality, and the LGBTQ+ community faces legal, social, and familial persecution. Although a controversial anti-LGBTQ bill was passed by Ghana’s previous parliament, it was not signed into law by former President Nana Akufo-Addo.
Pressure is mounting on the new parliament to revive the bill, with President John Dramani Mahama expected to assent if it is passed again.