The Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) has called on Parliament to revert to the original version of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, arguing that the current legislation is not strong enough to safeguard Ghana’s moral, cultural and family values.
The Council’s appeal aligns with calls by the Minority in Parliament, which has consistently advocated for the reinstatement of the earlier draft of the bill, describing it as more comprehensive in addressing issues related to LGBTQ+ activities.
The renewed demand comes amid ongoing consultations following the recall of the bill after its passage in Parliament, a move intended to allow for broader stakeholder engagement.
In a statement issued on June 8 and signed by its President, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, the GPCC commended Parliament for prioritising and fast-tracking work on the legislation. However, the Council expressed disappointment with the current version, insisting that it does not adequately reflect the expectations of the Christian community and the wider Ghanaian public.
According to the GPCC, the version approved by the previous Parliament contained stronger provisions that offered greater protection for the country’s cultural heritage, family structure and moral values.
“It is our humble but firm position that the legislation, in its present state, falls short of the expectations of the Christian community and the overwhelming majority of Ghanaians, and may not be sufficiently robust to protect time-tested family values, our cultural heritage, and the moral fabric of our society,” the statement said.
The Council urged lawmakers to restore and adopt the earlier version of the bill without delay, maintaining that it remains committed to supporting initiatives aimed at preserving Ghana’s moral standards, national sovereignty and social well-being.
The GPCC further stressed that a stronger legal framework is necessary to uphold what it describes as the nation’s long-standing values and to address concerns surrounding the promotion of LGBTQ+ activities in the country.
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill has generated significant public debate since its introduction, with religious groups, civil society organisations and political actors expressing divergent views over its provisions and implications for human rights and constitutional freedoms.
