The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Bagbin, has given strong assurances that the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill will be reconsidered and passed before Parliament goes on recess on Friday, July 31.
Speaking during a visit to the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, Bagbin explained that three key clauses, specifically concerning sentencing provisions and the punishment regime, require minor adjustments before the bill is brought back to the floor for final consideration.
According to the Speaker, the legislative body wants to ensure the bill is airtight before wrapping up its work for the session.
“Our intention is to do it before we go on recess. We are likely to do so even by tomorrow so that it assures you that the members you elected to Parliament are doing what you have asked them to do,” the Speaker stated.
He further urged the public and religious leadership not to view the legislation through a partisan lens, emphasising that the bill transcends party politics.
“There is no politics at all. Anybody who wants to take political advantage, just disregard it. Both Muslims and Christians agree, even the unbelievers know that if we don’t pass it, we are acting against the decree of God,” he added.
Popularly referred to as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill has drawn significant national and international interest since its introduction. Proponents maintain that the legislation safeguards Ghanaian religious, moral, and cultural values, while critics continue to debate specific legal mechanisms within the framework.
With Parliament set to rise for recess, attention now turns to the parliamentary floor to see if the House will finalize the remaining amendments before Friday’s deadline.
