Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Hon. Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has said that the widely circulated images of two men purportedly kissing at Ghana’s Independence Square are not real but artificial intelligence (AI)-generated images.
The MP made the claim in response to growing public concern and political commentary over the viral photo, which has sparked debate on social media and in parliament. The image shows two men embracing and kissing in front of the iconic Black Star Gate, a national monument symbolic of Ghana’s sovereignty.
Speaking on the floor of parliament, Hon. Dafeamekpor who doubles as the majority chief whip explained that the image, which has been linked to an LGBTQ+ rights protest or statement, was not a genuine photograph taken at the site but rather a digitally manipulated creation. He added that the image was posted by a private individual on social media and has since been misrepresented.
The Minority in Parliament has formally requested the appearance of the Minister for Foreign Affairs to provide a statement and clarification on the issue, especially given the international implications and the symbolic significance of the location.
“This is a matter of national concern,” Dafeamekpor said. “The image being circulated is AI-generated. It did not happen at Independence Square. We must be cautious about the spread of misinformation, especially when it involves sensitive issues.”
The image’s circulation has fueled public outrage in a country where same-sex relationships are widely frowned upon and currently criminalized under Ghanaian law. Lawmakers across the aisle have demanded action and clarification from the government, with some calling for increased regulation of AI-generated content.
There has been no official response from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as of the time of this publication. However, the Speaker of Parliament has acknowledged the Minority’s request and has indicated that the Minister may be summoned in the coming days.
This development adds to the broader national conversation surrounding digital misinformation, LGBTQ+ rights, and the role of technology in shaping public discourse.
