Accra, Ghana – The Minority in Parliament has publicly challenged the National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding what they term a significant contradiction in the handling of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill. This comes after the bill, previously stated as ready for presidential assent, was returned to Parliament with substantial amendments, prompting questions about what changed between the initial “sign it now” stance and the current “amend it first” position.
Shifting Narrative on Bill Completion
Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Monday, June 1, Assin South MP Rev. John Ntim Fordjour highlighted that throughout 2024, the public was repeatedly assured by the NDC that the bill was finalized and only awaited the signature of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
He emphasized that various stakeholders, including churches, traditional leaders, civil society organizations, and the general public, were mobilized under the understanding that Parliament had concluded its legislative work on the bill.
Extensive Revisions Revealed
However, the reintroduced bill now incorporates 31 amendments that affect numerous provisions. These revisions span definitions, reporting obligations, criminal sanctions, and institutional safeguards within the legislation.
Leave a Reply