The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has announced that the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill—commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill—will be introduced for its first reading during the second meeting of the Ninth Parliament. This proposed legislation aims to criminalise LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, as well as any promotion, advocacy, or funding of such activities.
Bagbin announced during his opening remarks that Parliament’s second meeting has officially begun. He stated that three private members’ bills—the Property Rights of Spouses Bill 2025, the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana Amendment Bill 2025, and the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2025—have completed the necessary processes as outlined in the standing orders. These bills are expected to be presented for a first reading during this meeting.
The bill, which has generated intense national and international debate, was previously passed by the Eighth Parliament. However, it failed to receive presidential assent under former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration, and thus did not become law. With its reintroduction, the bill is expected to spark renewed discussions on human rights, constitutional freedoms, and Ghana’s cultural values. Parliament is now poised to begin deliberations on the bill, which remains one of the most polarising pieces of legislation in the country’s recent political history.
