The debate over Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill has returned to the centre of national discourse, with the Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam George, insisting that the legislation is firmly back on Parliament’s agenda and will soon be sent to President John Dramani Mahama for approval.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement by Parliament’s Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee, the bill’s lead sponsor dismissed suggestions that its progress had slowed following his appointment to government, stressing that legislative work on the proposal is still ongoing.
He clarified that the bill has not yet reached the presidency, countering public speculation that it had already been forwarded for assent.
The proposed law—commonly referred to as the anti-LGBTQI bill—seeks to impose criminal penalties on same-sex relations and related advocacy. It remains one of the most divisive pieces of legislation in recent years, drawing strong backing from religious institutions while attracting criticism from civil society groups and international human rights advocates.
Sam George noted that concerns raised by religious leaders, including the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference and the Office of the National Chief Imam, are being taken seriously, describing their interventions as important to the national conversation.
He also rejected claims that sponsors of the bill had stepped back from the process, insisting that parliamentary work continues in collaboration with co-sponsors, including John Ntim Fordjour.
According to him, most clauses in the bill have already been examined, with only limited adjustments expected as lawmakers finalise deliberations.
He further expressed confidence that once passed, the bill would receive presidential assent, though he stopped short of confirming any formal assurances from the presidency.
The legislation, which had previously been passed by Parliament but not signed into law before the end of the previous administration, is now undergoing renewed consideration as part of ongoing parliamentary processes.
