An inclusive society is a successful society – IMF boss on anti-LGBTQI+ bill

The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva, has underscored the importance of inclusivity in building a successful society.

Her comments follow the passing of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill by Parliament on February 28, 2024.

The bill criminalises LGBTQ+ activities, as well as their promotion, advocacy, and funding.

Those found guilty could face a jail term ranging from six months to three years, while those promoting and sponsoring the act could face a jail term between three and five years.

In a media interview, Madam Georgieva highlighted the importance of embracing everyone if a country seeks to develop.

“I understand that people in Ghana have taken the bill to court. All I can say is that a more inclusive society is a more successful society. You want Ghana to flourish; make it so that everybody can contribute to the fullest of this country,” she said in an interview on Citi FM on March 19.

Meanwhile, the Office of the President, in a letter dated March 18, has requested that Parliament desist from forwarding the anti-LGBTQ bill to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his assent.

The office cited two pending applications for an order of interlocutory injunction before the Supreme Court.

The applications seek to prevent Parliament from sending the bill to the President and to restrain the President from signifying his assent to the bill, pending the final determination of the matter.