After a lengthy period of debate and deliberation, Ghana’s Parliament has finally passed the highly debated Anti-LGBTQ+ bill. The bill, initially introduced in the House years ago, received unanimous approval on Wednesday, February 28, after completing the third reading. Speaker Alban Bagbin dismissed proposed amendments during the session, and the bill is now awaiting President Akufo-Addo’s assent.
Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin withdrew several proposed amendments on February 21 but reiterated his opposition to certain provisions during the parliamentary session. He argued against measures that could hinder individuals or groups from supporting vulnerable members of society, emphasizing the importance of aligning the bill with constitutional imperatives and upholding human rights.
However, National Democratic Congress MP Bernard Ahiafor opposed the amendments, stating that they prevent funding, promoting, and facilitating LGBTQ activities, which the bill aims to prohibit. The Speaker proposed deferring further consideration of the bill in accordance with Parliament’s provisions, Order 172(4).
The passage of the bill was not without controversy, as unexpected drama unfolded during the session. Following proposed amendments by Sam George and others, Asawase MP Muntaka Mubarak moved a motion to suspend the rule requiring a waiting period between the Consideration Stage and the Third Reading. Despite opposition, the motion to suspend the rule carried, allowing the House to proceed to the Third Reading without further amendments.
It is evident that the passing of the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill in Parliament has sparked intense debate and differing opinions among MPs. The bill’s fate now rests in President Akufo-Addo’s hands as Ghanaians await his decision on the contentious legislation.
