CNN’s Richard Quest’s interview with Ghana’s Finance Minister, Mohammed Amin Adam, turned tense over the country’s controversial anti-LGBT+ bill.
The exchange, which took place at an event in the United States, saw Quest seeking a personal viewpoint from Adam, given his significant roles in the government.
Quest probed, “If the court rules in favor of the law, what would you advise?”
Dr. Adam stated, “Well, I would subject myself to the laws of my country. I do not live on an island. I live in a country that is governed by laws.”
Quest, unsatisfied with the response, pushed for a more personal take, “What do you think of the law? Just give me a human answer. Just for goodness sake, [hitting on the table loudly] give me a human answer on what you think of the law.”
Dr. Adam maintained, “The most important thing is to discuss the effects of the law when passed… having said that, it is not for me (Richard Quest interjects [it is!]) to give the determination to the Supreme Court of our country.”
A frustrated Quest removed his glasses, stating, “You are going in circles here.”
Dr. Adam countered, “I am not.”
Quest, raising his voice, continued, “You have said this several times, and I understand your point! [gesturing towards Dr. Adam]. I understand that you don’t want to answer it.”
Dr. Adam repeated, “Let me state my point clearly again, there is a case before the Supreme Court and I am not going to prejudice the determination of the Supreme Court.”
Quest then questioned the minister’s responsibility regarding the law, to which Dr. Adam replied, “The responsibility I am taking is, if the Supreme Court rules in favor and the president assents to it, I will subject myself to the laws of my country.”
Quest inferred, “So you are in favor.”
Dr. Adam concluded, “I have told you, I will subject myself to the laws of my country, once it becomes law. Until then, the Supreme Court has to make a determination on it and that issue is currently before the Supreme Court. And I am not going to prejudice the determination by the Supreme Court.”
The interview concluded with Quest thanking Dr. Adam, who responded, “It’s been my pleasure.”
The anti-LGBT+ bill, which was passed by Ghana’s parliament, is now awaiting the decision of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
The president’s signature is on hold until the Supreme Court addresses the challenges to the bill’s constitutionality. Two cases are currently before the Supreme Court, contesting the legality of the bill.
Watch the video below;
📹"I will subject myself to the laws of my country" -Dr. Amin Adams, Ghana's Finance Minister's response to@CNN presenter @richardquest on LGBTQ Law #AsaaseRadio pic.twitter.com/AGeSROyRHD
— Asaase 99.5 (@asaaseradio995) April 19, 2024