They Would Ask Me To Shut Up—Celestine Donkor Explains Stance On Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill
Celestine Donkor expressed her interest in discussing the trending LGBQ+ topic, acknowledging its sensitivity, but decided to refrain from doing so to safeguard her brand.
The popular Ghanaian gospel musician and songwriter mentioned her desire to share her thoughts on various current issues in the country but noted that some Ghanaians may criticize her and advise her to concentrate solely on her music career.
She shared this sentiment when she was interviewed by Amansan Krakye on Property FM in Cape Coast.
Everything that is happening in this country if we had our own way we would have expressed our opinion about it. When it comes to politics and when it comes to LGBTQ issues I wish I could express my opinion but because of some experiences that we’ve had in the industry some time ago so we’re quiet.
She further added:
Because you have decided to share your opinion on issues of politics or LGBTQ before you realize some people will say you’re a musician so you have to shut up and focus on your music career. That’s what we’re told most of the time so by the grace of God we are focusing our attention solely on the music that we are doing for now.
Celestine Donkor’s colleague, MOG also shared a similar sentiment in an interview on UTV. MOG made it clear that he will refrain from expressing his views on the anti-LGBT+ bill to protect his reputation.
He firmly believes that this topic is extremely contentious and delicate, as Ghanaians often criticize people who voice their support or opposition towards the bill.
The pastor and singer said he would plead with the fifth in this regard to avoid clashing with Ghanaians.
“I’ll just plead the fifth. I’m saying this to protect my brand. Because if I say “for”, people will talk, if I say “against”, people will talk. I’ll just be in the middle. I can only disclose what I stand for in private. But for now, I’ll plead the fifth”, He said this on United Showbiz on UTV.
Meanwhile, the President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, has made it clear that he does not support the anti-gay bill recently passed by the Ghanaian parliament.
He emphasized that Ghana will continue to uphold its reputation as a protector of human rights. According to a statement released by the President, the bill is currently being contested in the Supreme Court, and the nation must wait for the court’s decision.
The anti-gay bill was approved by Ghana’s Parliament on February 28, 2024.
The full statement from the presidency can be found here.
