Karim Shanoon, a 32-year-old bisexual man, remains missing after a violent mob attack at Epo Club in Accra ( Osu) on 19th July  2024, that left one person dead and highlighted Ghana's ongoing persecution of its LGBTQ+ community.

The incident, which resulted in the death of Karim Shanoon partner, has reignited debate over Ghana's treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals amid the upcoming December elections. Karim Shanoon narrowly escaped after he and his  partner Maxwel prempeh were discovered at the Epos nightclub. While Karim Shanoon managed to flee, his  partner was tragically beaten to death by an angry mob. Reports suggest that Karim Shanoon may have sought refuge in Eastern region , koforidua  , though his exact whereabouts remain unknown.

This attack follows a disturbing pattern of violence against Ghana's LGBTQ+ community. Over the past five years, dozens of LGBTQ+ Ghanaians have reportedly died in similar attacks, while hundreds more have fled the country, seeking asylum in Western countries. Many victims have faced brutal mob violence, family rejection, and forced displacement from their homes and communities.

Karim Shanoon, a Muslim resident of Nima, one of Accra's largest Muslim-dominated communities, remains unable to return to her neighborhood. Local religious leaders have publicly condemned his lifestyle, and community members have reportedly threatened violence if he returns, forcing his family to relocate for their safety.

His  distressed family has made urgent appeals to authorities and security services to help locate him. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation of Ghana's approach to LGBTQ+ rights and safety.

Ghana's deeply rooted cultural stance against LGBTQ+ activities has created an environment of fear and persecution for members of the community. The country's anti-LGBTQ+ bill, officially titled the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, remains under parliamentary consideration, proposing criminal penalties for LGBTQ+ activities, advocacy, and support.

With Ghana's December elections approaching and campaigning in full swing, human rights activists are pressing political parties to prioritize LGBTQ+ rights in their policy platforms. Advocates argue that the current climate of intolerance has led to increased violence and human rights violations.

"The government's rhetoric and actions have emboldened individuals and groups to take the law into their own hands," said Lydia Mensah, a human rights advocate in Accra. "When you demonize people, you create a culture of fear and hatred that leads to tragedies like these."

In response to the attack, Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah condemned the mob violence while maintaining the government's position on cultural values. "The government does not condone mob justice under any circumstances," he stated. "While we remain committed to upholding Ghana's moral principles, all allegations must be handled through lawful processes."

Critics argue that the government's anti-LGBTQ+ policies indirectly encourage such acts. Amnesty International Ghana has issued a statement urging authorities to protect all citizens, regardless of their sexual orientation, and to address the root causes of mob violence.

As Shanoon family continues their desperate search, the incident has intensified calls for dialogue, education, and tolerance. Community leaders and human rights organizations are demanding stronger protections for marginalized groups and comprehensive strategies to address violence, foster understanding, and uphold the rule of law in Ghana.

In seeking asylum in America, I hope for the opportunity to start a new life where I can live openly
and fearlessly, contribute to society, and pursue my dreams without fear of violence and persecution
I am committed to following American laws and values, and I hope to make a positive contribution to
American society. I am hoping that the American government will provide me with a haven and
protection from the persecution I was subjected to in Ghana.