Speaker Bagbin instructs Parliament’s Business Committee to re-introduce anti-LGBTQ bill for consideration
Speaker Bagbin instructs Parliament's Business Committee to re-introduce anti-LGBTQ bill for consideration
The Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has directed the Business Committee to schedule the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ Bill, for reintroduction and consideration.
The bill went through all the legislative processes and was passed by the Eighth Parliament in February 2024. However, it was not assented to by the then-President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and therefore did not become law.
The bill subsequently lapsed upon the inauguration of the Ninth Parliament. In February 2025, nine Members of Parliament declared their intention to reintroduce the bill.
According to Speaker Bagbin, the reintroduction of the anti-LGBTQ Bill does not contravene any constitutional provision, and does not amount to a waste of state financial resources, and has subsequently, directed that the drafting be redone and the bill transmitted in pursuant of Order 186 and directed the Committee on Private Member’s bill and Private Member’s Motion to consider again and advise on whether the bill complies with the relevant constitutional provisions.
Addressing MPs on the floor of the House on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the Speaker said: “Honourable Members, I have reviewed the report of the Committee and form 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.
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,” he stated.
The bill seeks to introduce strict criminal penalties for same-sex sexual activity, as well as for the promotion or support of LGBTQ+ rights. Under earlier versions passed by Parliament, individuals could face prison terms for engaging in same-sex conduct or for advocacy related to such activities.
