Speaker Bagbin to name MPs obstructing Anti-Gay Bill reconsideration

Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has warned Members of Parliament against deliberately obstructing efforts to reconsider the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, popularly known as the Anti-Gay Bill.

Addressing the House on Tuesday, November 3, Mr Bagbin said he would publicly name lawmakers found to be frustrating the process so their constituents could know those responsible for delaying the Bill's reconsideration.

He maintained that Parliament had a constitutional obligation to revisit the proposed legislation and complete all outstanding procedures in a transparent and accountable manner.

The warning comes as Parliament resumes consideration of the Private Member’s Bill, which was introduced on June 9, 2025, by Reverend John Ntim Fordjour and other sponsors.

The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, seeks to establish provisions relating to human sexual rights, family values and other related matters.

Its accompanying memorandum states that the proposed law is intended to reflect Ghana’s cultural, religious and social values on family life and sexuality.

Advocates of the legislation maintain that it represents the beliefs of the majority of Ghanaians and responds to demands by traditional authorities and religious organisations for stronger legal safeguards for family values.

The memorandum specifically references positions previously taken by the National House of Chiefs and various faith-based organisations in support of the Bill.

However, human rights groups and some international organisations have expressed concerns that certain provisions could infringe on constitutional rights and freedoms. They have called for Parliament to consider Ghana’s human rights obligations alongside the country's cultural and social values.

The Bill is expected to undergo further parliamentary scrutiny in line with established legislative procedures before the House takes a final decision.