The Minority in Parliament has called for the reinstatement of the original Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, arguing that recent amendments have significantly weakened its provisions and undermined its intended purpose.
The caucus described the changes to the legislation as “dangerous dilutions,” insisting that Parliament should revert to the version passed in 2024.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, June 1, the Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, who sponsored the Bill, said the amendments have stripped it of its effectiveness and deterrent power.
According to him, the revised Bill no longer reflects the original intentions of lawmakers and lacks the stronger enforcement measures contained in the earlier version.
Rev. Ntim Fordjour further argued that the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) had previously supported the Bill in its original form and publicly pledged to ensure its passage without major changes.
He alleged that the amendments represent a departure from that position and accused the government of failing to meet public expectations.
“These are dangerous dilutions we should not allow to go like that. We want the old Bill to come back. The old Bill is what has the teeth, the deterrence, and the teeth to bite,” he said.
Parliament on Friday, May 29, passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, with several amendments, reigniting political debate over its scope and implementation.
The amended version exempts legal practitioners from sanctions for providing legal representation or advice to persons identified as LGBTQ+. Journalists and media organisations reporting on LGBTQ+ issues as part of their professional duties are also protected under the revised law.
Additionally, medical professionals offering surgical, psychological, counselling, or related healthcare services are exempt from punishment under the Bill.
The Minority, however, maintains that these exemptions and other amendments substantially alter the intent of the original legislation and has renewed calls for its full restoration.
