Ghana’s Parliament is set to resume consideration of a highly controversial bill seeking to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities, marking the latest chapter in a legislative process that has spanned nearly five years and ignited significant national and international debate. The bill, officially known as the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, was presented for its second reading on Thursday, advancing its contentious journey through the legislative body.
Background of the Bill
The legislation was first introduced in June 2021 by a cross-party group of Members of Parliament, spearheaded by Ningo-Prampram MP Sam George. Its core aim is to prohibit same-sex sexual relations, along with any advocacy, funding, or related activities supporting the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana.
Following its first reading in August 2021, the bill was sent to Parliament’s Constitutional, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee for in-depth review. This committee engaged in extensive public hearings from 2021 to 2022, gathering input from various stakeholders including religious institutions, traditional leaders, legal experts, civil society organizations, and human rights groups.
These hearings generated a robust public discourse. Proponents argued the bill was essential for safeguarding Ghanaian cultural norms and family structures. Conversely, opponents raised concerns that the legislation was unconstitutional and discriminatory, violating fundamental human rights.
Legislative Journey and Setbacks
In July 2023, Parliament advanced the bill to its second reading stage, subsequently moving to a detailed clause-by-clause examination. The legislative process culminated on February 28, 2024, when Parliament passed the bill following its third reading.
However, the bill did not receive presidential assent before the dissolution of the Eighth Parliament. Then-President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo deferred assent, awaiting the outcome of constitutional challenges filed at the Supreme Court. The bill consequently lapsed with the end of the parliamentary term preceding the 2024 general election.
Reintroduction and Renewed Debate
In the newly constituted Ninth Parliament, the bill’s sponsors reintroduced it as a private member’s bill. Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin determined that the proposed legislation met the necessary constitutional and procedural prerequisites for reintroduction.
The bill was officially laid before the House earlier this year and subsequently referred to the Constitutional, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee. It has now returned to the plenary for its second reading, signaling a renewed push for its passage.
Implications and Future Outlook
The bill’s resurgence is anticipated to reignite fervent debate across Ghana. Conservative and religious groups are actively campaigning for its approval, emphasizing traditional values. Meanwhile, human rights advocates and several civil society organizations continue to voice strong opposition, citing constitutional and human rights violations.
The renewed legislative push places Ghana at a critical juncture regarding its stance on LGBTQ+ rights and human freedoms. The upcoming parliamentary debates and potential final passage will have significant implications for the LGBTQ+ community within Ghana, as well as for the nation’s international relations and its commitment to universal human rights principles. Observers will be closely watching the parliamentary proceedings and any subsequent actions by the executive branch and the judiciary.
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