Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has expressed surprise over the passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, popularly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, while he was away on official duties.
According to the Speaker, he had expected Parliament to begin deliberations on the bill on Friday, May 29, but did not anticipate that lawmakers would complete all the stages required for its passage before his return.
Speaking on Monday, June 1, Bagbin explained that before leaving for other official engagements, he had instructed the House to commence consideration of the bill. However, he was later informed that Parliament had proceeded beyond the initial stages and approved the legislation. “It was even a surprise to me because I knew that they were going to start the consideration of the bill,” the Speaker stated.
Bagbin emphasised that the legislation is a critical national issue that requires broad consensus and extensive consultations among stakeholders. As a result, he has summoned both the Majority and Minority leadership of Parliament for discussions on the way forward.
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, was passed by Parliament on May 29 after undergoing amendments. The bill seeks to prohibit LGBTQ+ activities, advocacy, sponsorship, and funding in Ghana, while providing exemptions for lawyers, journalists, and health professionals performing their professional duties.
The passage of the bill has generated significant public debate and international attention, with supporters describing it as a measure to protect Ghanaian family values, while critics have raised concerns about its implications for human rights and freedoms.
The bill is expected to undergo further scrutiny as Parliament addresses concerns raised over procedural issues before it is presented to President John Dramani Mahama for consideration.
