Accra, Ghana – President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his administration’s opposition to same-sex marriage and transgender rights, stating that he would sign the controversial “Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill” – commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ bill – if it is passed by Parliament. His remarks, which drew applause from religious leaders, underscore a firm stance on traditional family values amid ongoing debates over LGBTQ+ rights in the country.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Christian Council of Ghana to the Jubilee House on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, President Mahama outlined his government’s position: “But if you want, the position of my government [is that] marriage is between a man and a woman. A person’s gender is determined at birth. And then also, that the family is the foundation of our nation. That is our position.”
The President addressed the status of a previous version of the bill, which was introduced in the 8th Parliament but never reached his predecessor, Nana Akufo-Addo, for assent. According to Mahama, the bill lapsed and expired following the dissolution of the 8th Parliament, as stipulated by Ghana’s Constitution. He noted that Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has expressed commitment to reintroduce the bill, allowing it to undergo the full legislative process anew.
However, President Mahama’s account appears to contradict statements made by Speaker Bagbin in Parliament just weeks ago. Bagbin had indicated that the bill was transmitted to the Presidency for assent but was not returned, even though no action was taken on it. This discrepancy arose after the bill was removed from Parliament’s order paper shortly after being scheduled for its First Reading.
During the meeting, President Mahama received enthusiastic applause from the Christian Council members. He emphasized alignment between his government and the Council’s views, stating, “There are no questions about what the government believes – we are completely aligned with the Christian Council in terms of your beliefs.”
He further expressed support for reintroducing the bill: “We agree with the Speaker to relay the bill and let Parliament debate it, and if there are any amendments that have to be done.”
Mahama concluded by pledging his commitment to the legislation, saying, “If the Parliament and the people of Ghana endorse the bill and vote on it and pass it, and it comes to me as President, I will sign it.”
The anti-LGBTQ bill has been a polarizing issue in Ghana, drawing support from conservative and religious groups while facing criticism from human rights advocates both domestically and internationally. If reintroduced and passed, it could impose strict penalties on LGBTQ+ activities, further shaping the nation’s legal and social landscape.
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