Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has disclosed that Ghana’s highly contentious Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill is set to be passed by Friday, February 16. This legislation aims to prohibit activities related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals within the country.
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, Dr Forson emphasized that the bill has undergone rigorous scrutiny and is currently undergoing final checks to ensure that all proposed amendments approved by Parliament are accurately incorporated.
He outlined the procedural timeline, stating that by Wednesday, the bill’s review process will be completed, with the Speaker expected to pose the question for Members of Parliament (MPs) to cast their votes by Thursday.
“By the weekend, Ghana should have a bill called the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill,” Dr Forson affirmed.
Responding to concerns about potential international backlash, Dr Forson asserted that the people of Ghana are overwhelmingly in favor of the bill’s passage. He noted surprising unanimity among MPs during the Speaker’s inquiry, with no significant opposition voiced.
Highlighting the protracted nature of the debate, Dr. Forson underscored that the bill’s details have been under parliamentary consideration since 2021. Despite extended deliberations, he remains confident in widespread support for the legislation.
“It has been here for three years, and we’re still debating it. We’ve finished the consideration, what is left is the third reading, and after that, the speaker will put the question,” he stated.
Dr. Forson expressed certainty that the bill would eventually become law, even if President Akufo-Addo were to exercise his discretion not to approve it. He explained that Parliament could use a two-thirds majority to override a presidential veto.
“So as it stands now, I think the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill will become law even if the President fails to [willingly] sign it,” Dr. Forson concluded.
The impending passage of this bill reflects ongoing debates surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana and the government’s stance on these issues. As the legislation moves closer to enactment, it is likely to spark further discussion and scrutiny both domestically and internationally.