Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, has emphasized his commitment to advancing the LGBTQ+ bill that passed in Parliament but was not approved by former President Nana Akufo-Addo. During a gathering with the Ghanaian community in Côte d’Ivoire on January 21, 2025, Speaker Bagbin condemned same-sex relationships, stating that he would prefer to sacrifice his life rather than accept such behaviours.
The bill, which criminalises same-sex relationships, successfully went through Parliament but was not signed into law by the former president. During his address, Speaker Bagbin highlighted the constitutional framework, emphasising that the president does not have the authority to withhold assent to a bill passed by Parliament.
“Parliament is the authority on passing laws, not any other person, not the president,” Bagbin stated. “He was wrong, and all of you together punished him for that.” Speaking passionately, Bagbin expressed his unwavering stance on the matter. “Nobody should joke with me when it comes to that area. I can lose my life because of that. It is better not to live than to live in a society where man to man, woman to woman, what is that?” he declared.
Speaker Bagbin assured the audience that he would engage the new Attorney General and Minister for Justice to review the bill and prepare it for submission to the new president for assent. “I’m determined to see this through quickly, hoping for passage this year,” Bagbin said. “To me, it’s a matter of upholding moral principles, and I’m willing to take a strong stance, even if it comes at great personal cost.”
Expressing hope, Bagbin reiterated his confidence that the bill would pass this year, emphasizing his dedication to what he termed moral and societal values. The Speaker’s comments arise amid ongoing heated debates surrounding LGBTQ+ rights, both locally and globally. His firm statements underscore the significance of this issue in Ghana’s legislative and social conversation.
By: Mohammed Ali
