The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the passage of the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, which he described as critical to Ghana’s moral and social framework.
Speaking to members of the Ghanaian community in Côte d’Ivoire on January 26, 2025, he announced his decision to seek advice from the new Attorney General and Minister for Justice to expedite the process of resubmitting the bill for presidential assent.
Bagbin noted that the bill had previously been passed by Parliament but was not assented to by former President Akufo-Addo, a move he described as unconstitutional. He expressed his disapproval of the former president’s actions, stating that no provision in Ghana’s laws allows the president to refuse or fail to assent to a bill passed by Parliament. Bagbin reiterated that Parliament holds the ultimate authority to pass laws and criticized the former president’s decision as a violation of constitutional principles.
“The LGBTQ bill was passed by Parliament, but the former president refused to assent to it, which was unconstitutional. There is no law allowing the president to refuse or fail to assent to a bill passed by Parliament. Parliament is the authority for passing laws, not any other person, not the president. That decision was wrong, and all of you punished him for that,” Bagbin stated, referencing the public’s dissatisfaction with the previous administration.
The Speaker assured the Ghanaian community in Côte d’Ivoire that the bill would not be delayed under the current administration. He expressed his determination to have it passed this year, underscoring its significance to the nation’s values and his personal commitment to seeing it through.
“I am going to write to the new Attorney General and Minister for Justice for his comments for us to resend it to the new president for his assent. So it is not going to take time—it will be passed this year. It is anti-God…Nobody should joke with me when it comes to that area. I can lose my life because of that,” he declared.
Bagbin’s remarks highlight the importance he places on the bill as a reflection of Ghana’s cultural and religious values. He described the legislation as aligned with the country’s collective stance against practices deemed contrary to its moral fabric. The Speaker’s pledge to prioritize the bill’s passage this year has further emphasized the urgency with which he intends to address the matter.
The Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, which has been a subject of intense national debate, seeks to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana and impose strict penalties for individuals found in violation. Proponents of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect Ghana’s cultural identity and safeguard its moral values. Critics, however, have raised concerns about potential human rights violations and the implications for Ghana’s international relations.
Bagbin’s comments reflect his firm position on the issue, signaling his readiness to navigate any legal or procedural hurdles to ensure the bill becomes law. His decision to consult the Attorney General and Minister for Justice demonstrates a commitment to adhering to constitutional processes while addressing a matter he considers to be of paramount importance.
The Speaker’s vow to prioritize the bill also underscores the broader role of Parliament in shaping the country’s legislative agenda. By reaffirming Parliament’s authority in the lawmaking process, Bagbin has sent a clear message about the institution’s independence and its responsibility to represent the will of the people.
Bagbin’s remarks in Côte d’Ivoire have reignited discussions around the bill, with supporters applauding his determination and critics questioning the implications of such legislation for Ghana’s democratic principles and human rights commitments. The Speaker’s assertion that the bill will be passed this year reflects a sense of urgency that is likely to shape the legislative agenda in the coming months.
The issue of LGBTQ+ rights has been a polarizing topic in Ghana, with strong opinions on both sides of the debate. While some view the bill as a necessary measure to preserve Ghana’s cultural and religious values, others argue that it risks alienating marginalized groups and undermining the country’s commitment to human rights. Bagbin’s statements suggest that he is unwavering in his stance, viewing the bill as a moral imperative that transcends political considerations.
As the Speaker prepares to write to the Attorney General and Minister for Justice, the next steps in the legislative process will likely draw significant attention. The resubmission of the bill to the president for assent will be a pivotal moment, with potential implications for Ghana’s domestic and international standing.
Bagbin’s commitment to the bill also highlights the complex interplay between legislative authority and executive power in Ghana’s governance structure. By challenging the former president’s decision not to assent to the bill, the Speaker has underscored the importance of upholding constitutional principles and ensuring that the will of Parliament is respected.
The Speaker’s pledge to see the bill passed this year is a testament to his determination to address what he perceives as a critical issue for Ghana’s social and moral framework. His willingness to consult with the Attorney General and Minister for Justice reflects a pragmatic approach to navigating the legislative process while maintaining a firm stance on the importance of the bill.
Bagbin’s remarks have also underscored the broader role of leadership in addressing contentious issues and fostering public trust in the legislative process. By engaging with the Ghanaian community in Côte d’Ivoire and outlining his plans for the bill, the Speaker has demonstrated a commitment to transparency and accountability.
The Speaker’s resolve to prioritize the passage of the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill this year is likely to galvanize support among proponents while intensifying debates around the legislation’s broader implications. As the legislative process unfolds, Bagbin’s leadership will be closely watched, with the potential to shape the trajectory of the bill and its impact on Ghana’s social and political landscape.
