Sam George Condemns Viral Gay Kiss at Independence Arch
Labels Act “Abhorrent Disrespect” and “Gross Affront to Ghanaian Values”
Edem Latsu Nukafu eljourno 
Ghana’s Minister for Communications and Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Samuel Nartey George, has lashed out at a viral photograph showing a South African gay couple kissing at Ghana’s historic Independence Arch, describing the act as “abhorrent” and “an insult to our cultural values.”
The outspoken anti-LGBTQ+ lawmaker, who has been at the forefront of efforts to pass the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill, broke his silence following growing public outcry and media pressure for him to address the image, which has sparked fierce debate across the country.
■ “Despicable Disrespect” — Sam George Speaks Out
In a fiery statement posted on social media, Sam George minced no words, branding the couple’s actions as the height of disrespect to Ghana’s national identity.
“The disrespect of our national symbols is despicable, to say the least,” he wrote. “This was a gross affront to Ghanaian cultural values by miscreants seeking to provoke outrage.”
■ Calls for Safeguarding of National Monuments and Moral Values
The MP further argued that Ghana’s landmarks, especially the Independence Arch — a symbol of freedom and national pride — must not be turned into what he called “stages for foreign moral decadence.”
He emphasized that while Ghana remains committed to protecting human rights, it will not compromise on its cultural integrity or sovereignty.
■ Controversy Sparks National Debate on LGBTQ+ Rights and Expression
The viral photo has reignited debate over LGBTQ+ rights, visibility, and the boundaries of public expression in Ghana, a country where same-sex relationships remain socially and politically contentious.
While the photo has been celebrated by some as a bold step toward inclusion and visibility, conservative voices like Sam George’s have reaffirmed the country’s hard stance against what they consider foreign influence on Ghanaian traditions.
The lawmaker’s comments come as Parliament prepares to resume deliberations on the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, which remains one of the most hotly debated pieces of legislation in recent history.
