Chairman of the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee in Parliament, Kwame Ayimadu-Antwi, provides insights into the internal dynamics concerning the promotion of proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values bill, commonly referred to as the anti-gay bill.
Ayimadu-Antwi underscores the divergent views among religious leaders on the bill, highlighting varying opinions within the clergy.
During a press briefing on Thursday, December 7, Ayimadu-Antwi underscores the significance of crafting a bill that can endure the test of time.
“Some members of the public, even some reverend members are saying that this bill is a bad bill and we must not pass it but most Reverend ministers are saying it is a good bill we must pass it. We must pass a bill that will come into an act that would withstand the test of time.”
He cautioned against politicizing the bill, stating, “I must warn that any attempt that anybody would want to clothe this bill with political colors will suffer non-passage of the bill.”
The Chairman emphasized that the committee thoroughly examined various perspectives before presenting their report.
Responding to claims by Ningo Prampram Member of Parliament Samuel Nartey George that the Majority in Parliament was opposing the bill, Ayimadu-Antwi clarified that the leadership of Parliament had not directed the committee to proceed with the bill’s consideration.
He outlined the complexities involved, citing ongoing considerations for other bills like the Intestate Succession Bill and the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill.
The Chairman revealed the committee’s discussions on rehabilitating individuals within the LGBTQ+ community, following suggestions by the Speaker to involve religious bodies in the process.
He noted differing opinions within the religious community, with some viewing the bill negatively and others advocating for its passage. Despite these divisions, Ayimadu-Antwi emphasized the need to craft a bill that can withstand the test of time.