Mr Sibe Ibrahim, a Ghanaian human rights activist, philanthropist, and politician, has expressed deep concern over the increasing number of human rights violations in the country. 

Due to numerous threats and violations against him, Mr Ibrahim has decided to step back from his human rights advocacy work.

Mr Ibrahim emphasized the danger he faces due to his unwavering commitment to defending human rights in Ghana. 

The prevailing circumstances have forced him to adopt defensive measures to safeguard his life and the welfare of his loved ones, leading to his decision to discontinue his work in the pursuit of justice and equality.

In an interview with the media at  Christian Village in the Greater Accra Region, Mr Ibrahim expressed his worry for his own safety and that of his family members, stating that he has taken a step back to protect them.

Popularly known as Kalushar, highlighted issues such as the presence of the death penalty in the country’s legal system and the alarming rise in cases of mob lynching. 

These violations have prompted him to withdraw from his advocacy work to protect his life and that of his family.

One major cause for Mr Ibrahim’s concern is the yet-to-be-assented anti-gay bill, which has been passed by Parliament. 

He fears that if this bill becomes law, his life will be at even greater risk. 

He explained that the bill poses a serious threat to his advocacy efforts and may lead to dire consequences for him and his fellow activists. 

He believes that the bill, if signed into law by President Akufo-Addo, would violate the fundamental human rights of its victims, including the freedoms of speech, expression, privacy, and association.

Mr Ibrahim, who is also an estate developer, described the bill as a witch-hunt against LGBTQ+ individuals, arguing that it contradicts the principles of equality, non-discrimination, and freedom of expression. 

“This bill represents a witch-hunt against LGBTQ+ people and their human rights. 

It contravenes the principles of equality and non-discrimination. 

Imprisoning individuals based on their sexual orientation is unjust and fundamentally goes against the principles of human rights,” he added.

Mr Mubarak Muntari, Ibrahim’s secretary and ally in their advocacy work, also expressed apprehension regarding their safety. 

Together, they have strived to shed light on human rights violations and to create positive change within Ghana. 

However, the increasing risks associated with their efforts have left Mr Muntari fearing for his own life.

The plight of Mr Ibrahim and Mr Muntari underscores the gravity of the situation concerning human rights in Ghana.

 Their dedication to their cause has earned them respect and admiration from the public but has also attracted the attention of powerful entities and interest groups who feel threatened by their activism.

The impending Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Values Bill, known as the Anti-Gay Bill, if passed into law, would impose custodial sentences ranging from five to ten years for those found guilty of promoting or advocating for LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana. 

Additionally, engaging in homosexual activities could result in imprisonment for a period between two months and three years, as stipulated by Article 4(2) of the act.

The anti-gay bill has already been passed by Parliament, but its enforcement as law depends on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s assent. 

The bill has raised concerns among human rights advocates, who fear the potential infringement upon the rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ individuals in Ghana.