The Christian Council of Ghana has expressed support for President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to subject the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, widely known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, to further constitutional and legal review before any final approval.
President Mahama, during a recent visit to the United Kingdom, indicated that the bill would undergo additional scrutiny to ensure it aligns with constitutional requirements before he considers assenting to it.
Reacting to the development, the Coordinator for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations at the Christian Council, Rev. Jehodia Godwin Amuzu, said the President’s approach was consistent with democratic practice and his constitutional mandate.
He explained that it is appropriate for the President to seek legal and advisory input to ensure the bill can withstand potential court challenges, noting that inadequate scrutiny could result in it being struck down.
Rev. Amuzu urged patience in the process, stressing that constitutional democracy requires due diligence rather than rushed decisions.
He also referenced earlier engagements in which President Mahama reportedly assured religious leaders of his willingness to assent to the bill once it was properly presented.
According to him, the Council believes the ongoing review is necessary, especially since the bill is not government-sponsored and therefore requires careful examination to confirm its legal soundness.
Rev. Amuzu further welcomed discussions in Parliament and public commentary on the bill, including recent calls by Speaker Alban Bagbin for reconsideration of aspects of the legislation, describing such engagement as part of a healthy democratic system.
He noted that active citizen participation and institutional checks and balances are essential to ensuring accountability in lawmaking.
The remarks come as national debate continues over the future of the controversial legislation and the processes required to determine its final outcome.
