The Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly referred to as the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, is poised for passage in 2025, according to Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Bagbin. He has affirmed his commitment to forwarding the bill to Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, for review before its final submission to the President for assent. Speaker Bagbin’s stance on the issue is unequivocal, demonstrating a deep conviction against LGBTQ+ practices, which he views as fundamentally incompatible with his beliefs. He has publicly stated his unwavering opposition, even going so far as to say he would rather die than condone such acts. This strong declaration underscores the bill’s significant political and social weight within Ghana.
The bill’s journey has been marked by complexities. Though passed by Parliament in February 2024, it failed to receive presidential assent before the parliamentary term ended due to an interlocutory injunction. This legal hurdle effectively rendered the previous version of the bill defunct. Now, with a new parliamentary session and a new President, the bill is being resurrected and championed by key political figures like Speaker Bagbin. His determination to see the bill enacted into law signals a renewed push for its passage, with the expectation that it will be finalized within the current year.
President John Dramani Mahama has also weighed in on the matter, acknowledging the expiration of the previous bill due to the parliamentary cycle. While recognizing the need for societal consensus, he has expressed his intention to reintroduce the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill. This indicates a potential alignment between the executive and legislative branches on this contentious issue. President Mahama’s call for dialogue suggests a desire to navigate the sensitive nature of the bill while aiming for a broadly supported outcome, potentially involving stakeholders from various sectors of Ghanaian society.
The bill itself seeks to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, a move that has garnered both support and criticism. Proponents argue it upholds traditional values and religious beliefs, while opponents express concerns about human rights violations and potential discrimination. The bill’s potential impact on the LGBTQ+ community within Ghana is substantial, with the possibility of legal repercussions for individuals who identify as or engage in same-sex relationships. This raises crucial questions about fundamental rights and freedoms, setting the stage for a complex debate about the balance between societal norms and individual liberties.
The revival of the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill promises to reignite a significant national conversation in Ghana. The bill’s proposed provisions raise critical questions about the legal and social status of LGBTQ+ individuals. The criminalization of LGBTQ+ activities could lead to the marginalization and persecution of an already vulnerable population, raising concerns about their safety and well-being. Furthermore, the bill’s passage could have international ramifications, potentially affecting Ghana’s relationship with other nations and international organizations that prioritize human rights and inclusivity.
The implications of this legislation extend beyond Ghana’s borders. The international community is closely watching the developments surrounding this bill, with human rights organizations already voicing concerns about its potential impact. The passage of such legislation could influence similar movements in other African nations, setting a precedent that could further restrict the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals across the continent. The ensuing debate will undoubtedly test the balance between cultural values, religious beliefs, and the universal principles of human rights, highlighting the complex interplay between local customs and international norms. This situation underscores the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights globally and the challenges faced by individuals seeking recognition and acceptance in various cultural contexts.
