The Supreme Court is set to hear two significant lawsuits today, Wednesday, July 3, 2024, filed by Broadcast Journalist Richard Dela Sky and Researcher Dr. Amanda Odoi.
Both lawsuits challenge the constitutionality of Parliament’s passage of the controversial anti-gay bill.
Richard Dela Sky is questioning the legality of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. He seeks a declaration from the court that the bill violates multiple provisions of the 1992 constitution and breaches fundamental human rights guaranteed by the constitution.
Dr. Amanda Odoi has also raised concerns about specific provisions within the bill. She is seeking a restraining order to prevent the Speaker of Parliament, the Attorney General, and the Clerk of Parliament from forwarding the bill to President Akufo-Addo for approval.
In response to the legal actions, the presidency has instructed Parliament to hold off on transmitting the bill until the Supreme Court addresses the issues raised.
A notice dated June 14, 2024, from Supreme Court Registrar Her Honour Ellen Ofei-Ayeh confirmed that the case is scheduled for July 3, 2024.
“Take notice that the above-mentioned case has been fixed for Wednesday the 3rd day of July 2024 at 9:30 am for hearing. If the case is called and you do not appear to answer, the Court will proceed to hear same without you,” the hearing notice read, addressed to the involved parties, including lawyers for the applicants and the Attorney General.