Mahama Ayariga: Focus Should Be on Presidential Assent, Not Reintroduction of “Passed” Anti-LGBTQ Bill

The Majority Leader in Ghana’s Parliament, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, has stated that there is no need to reintroduce the Anti-LGBTQ Bill, arguing that the legislation was already passed by the previous Parliament, and that current efforts should instead be directed toward securing Presidential assent.

Background: Bill Passed in 2024 but Lapsed with the 8th Parliament

The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly known as the Anti-LGBTQ Bill, was first introduced in 2021 and passed by Parliament in February 2024.

However, it failed to receive Presidential assent from former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo before the dissolution of the 8th Parliament on January 6, 2025.

As a result, the bill lapsed and is widely believed to have expired with the previous Parliament. It was resubmitted to Parliament in February 2025 for consideration under the new administration.

NPP Minority Challenges Majority Over Bill’s Removal

Hon. Ayariga’s remarks followed concerns raised by NPP Minority MPs after the Anti-LGBTQ Bill was removed from the order paper, just a day after being advertised for First Reading.

The Minority accused the NDC Majority and the current government of backtracking on a bill they had vigorously supported while in opposition.

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