Bagbin Orders Fresh Consideration of Anti-LGBTQ Bill Amid Procedural Concerns
By Editorial Desk
What appeared to be the final chapter in Parliament’s consideration of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, has taken an unexpected turn.
Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has directed Members of Parliament to revisit the controversial legislation following concerns about procedural compliance and the need for broader consensus.
The intervention comes only days after Parliament approved the Bill amid passionate debate, public interest and strong support from many religious and traditional groups.
Addressing the House on Tuesday, the Speaker disclosed that the passage of the Bill did not fully comply with certain Standing Orders governing parliamentary procedure.
He noted that the concerns raised by the Minority Caucus and the circumstances surrounding the final approval required careful reconsideration.
Mr. Bagbin emphasised that the Bill touches on deeply held moral convictions, cultural values, constitutional principles and the social aspirations of Ghanaians, making it imperative that Parliament proceeds with unity, transparency and integrity.
The Speaker has since summoned both Majority and Minority leaders to discuss the way forward and explore avenues for consensus-building.
The development follows complaints by Minority Members who argued that some of their objections and concerns were not adequately captured during the final stages of debate.
The Bill, popularly referred to as the Anti-LGBTQ Bill, seeks to prohibit LGBTQ activities, advocacy, sponsorship and promotion in Ghana, while prescribing sanctions for violations. Parliament initially passed the legislation on May 29 after extensive debate and amendments.
Speaker Bagbin’s intervention has generated mixed reactions across the country.
Supporters of the Bill insist that Parliament must proceed swiftly to preserve what they describe as Ghanaian family values and cultural traditions.
Others believe the Speaker’s decision offers an opportunity to strengthen the legislation and ensure that it withstands constitutional scrutiny.
The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has consistently supported the protection of marriage and family life while urging respect for the dignity of every human person.
Observers say the latest development demonstrates the complexity of balancing moral convictions, constitutional requirements and democratic procedures.
For now, the future of the Bill remains firmly in Parliament’s hands.
One thing is certain: Ghana’s most debated piece of legislation in recent years is still making history.
