Mahama ready to deliver on anti-LGBTQI campaign promise

President John Dramani Mahama has indicated that he is ready to assent to Ghana’s LGBTQI Bill following its passage last week

Parliament passed the controversial Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, criminalizing LGBTQ+ activities, advocacy, and funding after months of intense national debate and international scrutiny.

The bipartisan bill, originally introduced in June 2021 by Ningo-Prampram Member of Parliament (MP) Sam George, marked one of the most divisive legislative moments in Ghana’s democratic history.

Supporters, including powerful religious and traditional leaders, argue the law is essential to preserve Ghanaian cultural and family values.

Conversely, human rights organizations and international critics warn it severely undermines constitutional freedoms of expression, association, and non-discrimination.

A central point of contention in the final stages involved a push to introduce clauses exempting professionals from sanctions.

The proposed changes sought to protect journalists reporting on LGBTQ+ news, as well as medical, legal, and counseling professionals rendering essential services.