Kofi Okyere Darko (KOD), the Director of Diaspora Affairs at the Presidency, has announced that his office is investigating how a South African gay couple obtained permission to use Ghana’s national monuments for a controversial photoshoot.
On June 25, 2025, social media erupted after romantic photos of the couple, Rue and Lue, were shared under the hashtag #ShowGhanaLove. The images featured them displaying affection at several iconic Ghanaian landmarks, including Independence Square (Black Star Square), Osu Castle, Kwame Nkrumah Museum, and Aburi Botanical Gardens.
According to online posts, their intention was to show solidarity with Ghana’s LGBTQ+ community and protest the proposed Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which seeks to criminalize same-sex relationships and LGBTQ+ advocacy. If passed, the bill could impose penalties of up to three years’ imprisonment for same-sex acts and up to ten years for promoting LGBTQ+ activities.
The viral images drew widespread condemnation, with many Ghanaians accusing the couple of disrespecting national cultural symbols. In response, KOD initially expressed his sentiments on social media but later deleted the post.
Speaking on Adom FM, the presidential aide expressed deep concern over the use of national monuments to convey what many consider a provocative message.
“My concern was with their use of the Independence monument for their statement. While it’s permissible to take photos there, permission is required. We are investigating how they secured such permission,” he stated.
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He added that the presence of security personnel would not have prevented the act if the couple had legitimately obtained a permit. “People asked if there were no security officers present to stop them, but if they had permission, they would have been left alone.”
KOD further clarified his personal stance on the issue: “If you are gay or bisexual, that’s your own matter. However, publicizing it using Ghanaian flags and monuments is very wrong, especially since such acts are not accepted in our culture.”
He indicated that his team would thoroughly review the permit approval process to ensure proper procedures were followed.
The incident has reignited debate over LGBTQ+ rights and visibility in Ghana, with many calling for stricter controls over the use of national spaces for advocacy.
SOURCE: PULSE GHANA
