26-year-old doctor detained in police custody over alleged misconduct related to LGBTQ+ issues

A medical practitioner at the Bortianor Polyclinic in the Greater Accra Region, identified as Dr Bright Kwaku Akpetey, has been detained in police custody following his arrest on Tuesday, October 24, 2023.

The arrest comes amid growing concerns within the community over his support for LGBTQ+ advocacy, alongside allegations of professional misconduct.

Sources indicated that Dr. Akpetey’s outspoken support for LGBTQ+ rights and his use of inclusive language have drawn disapproval from some members of the Bortianor community, who view these actions as contrary to their cultural values.

In addition to these concerns, Dr Akpetey faces serious allegations of inappropriate behaviour, including reportedly obtaining patient contact information and making unwanted sexual advances, particularly toward male patients.

These allegations have resulted in multiple complaints filed with the Bortianor Polyclinic management, accompanied by calls for his dismissal.

Despite the complaints and reported warnings issued by hospital administrators, Dr Akpetey continued his LGBTQ+ advocacy—a stance that further fueled discontent within the community, leading some residents to reportedly attempt to locate him.

It is alleged that Dr Akpetey developed a close friendship with one of his patients, whom he later invited to his home for social gatherings. During these encounters, he reportedly made unwelcome sexual advances.

The patient, whose identity remains confidential, is said to have narrowly escaped and subsequently reported the incident to community members, sparking tensions that ultimately culminated in the doctor’s arrest.

A youth leader in the Bortianor community identified as Fifa, expressed the sentiments of some residents, stating that the health practitioner's alleged behaviour renders him "morally unfit" to serve the community and poses a potential threat to its cultural heritage.

A representative of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed Dr Akpetey’s arrest and noted that the physician had been the subject of multiple prior reports and official warnings.

The Kokrobite Police Division has declined to provide further details at this time, as the investigation is ongoing.

No formal charges have been announced, and authorities have not disclosed the next steps in the case.

However, some residents expressing their public opinion regarding LGBTQ+ issues at Krokobite said the doctor is innocent until proven guilty adding that they frown over the practice of the homosexuals.

Some expressed that LGBTQ+ activities pose a threat to peace and harmony, urging lawmakers to pass legislation to uphold Ghanaian family values.

A 2021 Afrobarometer survey revealed that only 7% of Ghanaians are tolerant of same-sex relationships, indicating that 93% express intolerance toward LGBTQ+ individuals.

This places Ghana among the most intolerant nations in Africa concerning LGBTQ+ acceptance.