'We’ve reintroduced anti-LGBTQ bill' – Sam George vows fidelity to Ghanaian Family Values

The controversial anti-LGBTQ bill is back in Parliament. It is being reintroduced as a private member’s bill. Ningo-Prampram MP Sam George leads this effort with colleagues.

On Joy News' PM Express, the Communications Minister spoke about the bill. He emphasized his commitment to the Ghanaian people and his chiefs.

“Four weeks ago, I reintroduced the bill as a private member’s bill,” he said. “I have kept my promise to the Ghanaian people.”

He noted that President Mahama preferred the government to reintroduce it. However, he felt his duty to constituents was more important.

“I respect President Mahama’s position,” he stated. “But I owe loyalty to my chiefs and people.”

He highlighted that his responsibility was clear: protect Ghanaian family values. “That was my mandate,” he explained.

He assured them he would reintroduce the bill when Parliament resumed, and he has done so. The government can take over the bill during its consideration, but that hasn’t happened yet.

Currently, it is moving through Parliament as a private member's bill. Some may wonder why there has been no progress yet.

“The committees were set up just before Parliament dissolved,” he clarified. “It’s not like four years ago when we sent it straight to committee.”

A new committee now handles private members’ bills, which has slowed progress down. “The parliamentary process takes time,” he added.

He recalled submitting the first version of the bill in 2021 but saw no action until late 2023.

“Yes, there was conversation in 2021/22, but it was mostly media talk,” he said.

With a super majority in the House now, Sam Nartey George expects quicker movement on the bill.

“We have a super majority,” he stated confidently. “I expect it to move faster this time.”

He noted that they have not changed any wording from what passed in the eighth Parliament. This continuity should reduce public debate needs.

“We don’t need to reinvent the wheel,” he remarked.

Parliament is currently on recess, but George looks forward to resuming legislative business soon.

“I hope when Parliament reconvenes, they will expedite this bill,” he said.

Despite delays, Sam Nartey George affirmed that reintroduction has occurred based on original convictions.

“I have kept my promise—to the Ghanaian people and my chiefs.”