We Will Not Accept A Hollow LGBTQI Law. — Catholic Bishops Conference of Ghana to Parliament

According to the Bishops, Ghanaians expect Parliament to uphold the will of the people by enacting a law that fully reflects the original provisions passed by the previous legislature. The Conference cautioned lawmakers against allowing procedural disagreements and political considerations to dilute the bill.

“We do not want a disfigured law,” Most Rev. Gyamfi stated, emphasizing that the legislation should be passed without compromises and forwarded directly to the President for assent.

The Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, widely known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, has remained at the centre of national debate since it was first introduced. The robust version passed by the 8th Parliament in 2024, but it failed to become law before the end of that parliamentary term.

When the bill was reintroduced and subsequently approved by the current Parliament, lawmakers introduced several amendments. Among the most notable changes were exemptions shielding legal practitioners, healthcare professionals and media personnel from prosecution when providing services to individuals associated with LGBTQ+ groups.

These revisions have sparked criticism from some members of the Minority caucus and conservative advocacy groups, who contend that the amendments have significantly weakened the legislation’s deterrent effect and overall effectiveness.

Amid the growing controversy, Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has directed the House to revisit the bill for further consideration. The Speaker said the review is necessary to ensure the legislation adequately protects national interests while respecting due process and constitutional requirements.