The Techiman Traditional Council has publicly condemned an alleged act of homosexuality involving a well-known local radio presenter, an incident that has sparked widespread unrest and resulted in the tragic death of one individual.
According to a press release signed by the Council’s Registrar, Hagan Sarpong, the incident allegedly took place on May 25, 2025, at the residence of Nana Osei Ahenkro, a former staff member of the Bono East Regional House of Chiefs and a radio presenter at Classic FM.
He was reportedly involved in a homosexual act with Richmond Mensah, an act the Council described as “criminal, abominable, and a disgrace to the customs and values of Techiman.”
“This act is a grave violation of our customs, religious values, and the laws of our land. Homosexuality is an abomination, a curse, and an affront to the moral fabric of the Techiman Traditional Area.” The statement said.
Following the community’s discovery of the act, attempts were made to apprehend the two individuals and bring them before traditional authorities. However, both initially fled. During the pursuit by the youth of the community, Richmond Mensah was arrested but tragically died due to mishandling, prompting expressions of regret from the Council over his death while maintaining that his alleged actions warranted traditional disciplinary measures.
“The youth of the community, upon discovering this act, rightfully intervened to bring the perpetrators to the palace for traditional justice. However, in the process, they both managed to escape. There was a manhunt arrest by the youth of the community for both to come answer for their crime but unfortunately Richmond Mensah who was found tragically lost his life due to mishandling, while Nana Osei Ahenkro is still on the verge of being found and anyone with knowledge of his whereabout should contact the Council.”
The Traditional Council reaffirmed its stance that homosexuality is not only against Ghanaian law but also in direct violation of the cultural and spiritual values of the Techiman Traditional Area. The Council has cautioned the public to report any suspected acts of homosexuality and warned that anyone found protecting such individuals would also face severe traditional sanctions, including banishment.
This incident comes at a time when Ghana is facing heightened national debate over LGBTQ+ rights. In February 2024, Ghana’s parliament passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which proposed up to three years’ imprisonment for engaging in same-sex sexual relations, and up to five years for promoting or supporting LGBTQ+ activities. However, the bill was not signed into law under the previous administration.
President John Mahama, who took office in January 2025, has since announced his full support for the bill, stating that his administration is committed to enacting it. The legislation has widespread public support within Ghana but has drawn strong international condemnation for violating basic human rights.
Source: Elvisanokyenews.com