Parliament to reconsider Anti-LGBTQ Bill following Speaker Bagbin’s directive

The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has directed the House’s Business Committee to schedule the reintroduction and consideration of the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, widely known as the anti-LGBTQ bill.

The legislation, which passed through all stages in the Eighth Parliament in February 2024, was never assented to by then-President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Consequently, the bill lapsed with the dissolution of that Parliament and the inauguration of the Ninth Parliament.

In a statement on the floor of the House on Tuesday, February 10, Speaker Bagbin asserted that the bill’s reintroduction does not violate constitutional provisions or constitute a misuse of state resources.

“I have reviewed the report of the Committee and formed the opinion that the Bill does not impose or alter taxation or a charge on the Consolidated Fund in the manner stipulated in Article 108 of the Constitution,” Bagbin stated.

He further directed that the bill be redrafted and transmitted in accordance with Parliamentary Order 186, and instructed the Committee on Private Member’s Bills and Private Member’s Motions to reassess its compliance with constitutional requirements.

“The Bill has gone through all the processes in accordance with the Standing Orders of Parliament. I therefore direct that the Bill be scheduled by the Business Committee to be presented to the House for consideration,” the Speaker declared.

The move follows an announcement in February 2025 by nine Members of Parliament of their intent to reintroduce the bill. The proposed legislation seeks to criminalize same-sex sexual activity and the promotion or support of LGBTQ+ rights, with previous versions prescribing prison terms for violations.

The directive sets the stage for a renewed parliamentary debate on the highly divisive issue, which has drawn significant local and international attention.