Ghana's Parliament set to reintroduce Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill 

Speaker of Parliament Announces Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill Introduction

Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, has made an announcement. The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill will be introduced soon. This bill is commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill.

The bill aims to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana. It also targets the promotion, advocacy, or funding of such activities. Mr. Bagbin shared this information with Members of Parliament after their Easter break.

He stated that three private members' bills are ready for a first reading. These include the Property Rights of Spouses Bill 2025 and the Constitution Amendment Bill 2025. The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2025 is also included.

The reintroduction of this bill may spark discussions on human rights and cultural values in Ghana. If passed, it would increase prison sentences for same-sex acts from three to five years. It would also impose jail time for promoting or supporting LGBTQ+ activities.

The Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) opposes the bill due to constitutional concerns. Dr. Michael Akagbor from CDD-Ghana stated that moral actions should not be crimes. He urged Parliament not to proceed with the bill's re-enactment.

Former President John Dramani Mahama has expressed his views on the bill as well. He supports its principles but prefers it as a government-sponsored initiative instead of a private member's bill.

Others warn that passing this bill could harm Ghana's economy significantly. The Ministry of Finance has cautioned that enacting it could jeopardize $3.8 billion in World Bank funding. It could also derail a crucial $3 billion International Monetary Fund bailout program needed for recovery.

By Elsie Appiah-Osei
GNA