Speaker instructs Business Committee to resubmit anti-LGBTQ legislation for consideration

Alban Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament, has authorized the Business Committee to schedule the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, better known as the anti-LGBTQ Bill, for reintroduction and discussion, claiming that it does not violate any constitutional provisions.

The Speaker stated that reconsidering the measure does not constitute a waste of public funds.

The bill went through all of the parliamentary processes and was approved by Ghana’s Eighth Parliament in February 2024. However, it was not signed by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and hence did not become law.

The bill expired once the Ninth Parliament was inaugurated. Confusion has subsequently enveloped the legislative process, as the last Parliament expired before the law was signed, forcing its reintroduction in the next session.

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In February 2025, nine MPs announced their intention to revive the measure.

Speaker Bagbin then instructed that the drafting be rewritten and the bill be forwarded in accordance with Order 186, and he also directed the Committee on Private Members’ Bill and Private Members’ Motion to reconsider and advise on whether the bill complies with the applicable constitutional requirements.

Addressing MPs on the House floor on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the Speaker stated, “Honorable Members, I have reviewed the Committee’s report and form the opinion that the Bill does not impose or alter taxation or a charge on the Consolidated Fund in the manner specified 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 measure aims to impose stringent criminal penalties for same-sex sexual conduct, as well as the advocacy or support of LGBTQ+ rights. Individuals might have risked prison time under previous versions of the law if they engaged in same-sex behavior or advocated for similar acts.

Source: 3news