PHOTO: Lofa Counry Rep. Momo Siafa Kpoto
By Alfred Kollie, alfredkolliejr92@gmail.com
Monrovia, Liberia – Lofa County District #3 Representative, Momo Siafa Kpoto, has introduced a bill seeking to amend the New Liberian Penal Code to tighten the screws against the gay practice.
The proposed amendment, titled An Act to Amend the New Penal Code Chapter 14, Subchapter D and Add a New Section 14.80, aims to criminalize same-sex practice in Liberia.
The bill has been forwarded to the Committees on Judiciary and Internal Affairs for scrutiny, with a report expected to be presented to plenary in two weeks.
This move has sparked debate across this West Africa nation, as it touches on a deeply sensitive and controversial issue.
Historically, Liberia has grappled with serious debates surrounding LGBTQ+ rights. In 2012, during the administration of former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, similar legislative efforts were introduced, drawing both domestic and international attention.
These efforts highlighted the cultural and societal tensions between traditional values and evolving global perspectives on human rights.
Rep. Kpoto’s proposal reignites this debate, with proponents arguing for the preservation of cultural norms, while critics emphasize the importance of protecting individual freedoms and human rights.
As the bill undergoes review, all eyes will be on the Legislature to see how this contentious issue unfolds through the corridors of the Capitol Building.