Rep. Kpoto Proposes Bill To Criminalize Same-Sex Practices In Liberia

By Grace Q. Bryant
Lofa County District 3 Representative, Momo Siafa Kpoto, has introduced a bill seeking to criminalize same-sex practices in Liberia, arguing that such legislation is necessary to uphold the country’s cultural and traditional values.
The proposed bill, titled “An Act to Amend the New Penal Code Chapter 14, Sub-Chapter D and Add a New Section 14.80 Making Same-Sex Sexual Practices a Criminal Offense,” aims to amend Liberia’s penal code to explicitly outlaw same-sex relationships, classifying them as a second-degree felony.
In his formal submission to the House of Representatives, Kpoto cited Article 5(b) of the 1986 Liberian Constitution, which calls for the protection and promotion of Liberian culture and traditional values.
He argued that the bill is necessary to ensure that practices deemed contrary to these values do not take root in the country.
“Representatives, Article 5(b) of the 1986 Constitution of our country requires, among other things, the protection of our culture and traditional values. After a thorough analysis of our culture and tradition in this contemporary society, I have deemed it most expedient to introduce this bill for your honorable consideration,” Kpoto stated.
The bill proposes that individuals engaged in same-sex activities, whether consensual or not should face criminal prosecution.
The legislation also seeks to penalize those who encourage or promote same-sex relationships, classifying such actions as an offense under the proposed section 14.80 of the penal code.
The bill outlines specific provisions under which an individual can be prosecuted for same-sex practices, including engaging in sexual intercourse with someone of the same gender, purposefully engaging in acts that arouse or encourage same-sex attraction and promoting, seducing, or encouraging another person to engage in same-sex activities.
Under the proposed law, individuals found guilty of same-sex practices would be charged with a second-degree felony.
The bill also mandates that all cases be tried in open court, with immediate implementation upon passage and publication in a handbill.
If passed, Liberia would join several African nations that have recently enacted or reinforced anti-LGBTQ+ laws.
The bill, however, is likely to face scrutiny from human rights organizations, both locally and internationally, as similar laws have drawn criticism for violating human rights conventions and international agreements to which Liberia is a signatory.
Rep. Kpoto urged his colleagues in the Legislature to support the bill, emphasizing that it would reinforce public trust and confidence in their leadership.
“In view of the foregoing, colleagues, I am keenly anticipating your indulgence for the passage of this bill, which will reinforce the trust and confidence reposed in us by our people,” he stated.