Ghana's Parliament is set to reconvene for the Third Meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic. During this session, Members of Parliament will deliberate on key fiscal proposals for the 2027 financial year. The Anti-Gay Bill, officially known as the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, will also be discussed. This bill aims to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities, advocacy, funding, and promotion of non-conventional sexual relations.
The Anti-Gay Bill has been a topic of heated debate for five years, attracting international attention. It was first introduced in Parliament on August 2, 2021, as a Private Members' Bill sponsored by a bipartisan group of eight MPs. The bill's lead sponsor was Samuel Nartey George, MP for Ningo-Prampram. After passing in February 2024, it was not assented to by President Akufo-Addo. The bill was reintroduced on February 17, 2026, and has sparked a complex national conversation.
The bill proposes penalties ranging from 3 to 10 years imprisonment for various offenses related to LGBTQ+ activities. It seeks to criminalize identifying as LGBTQ+, with offenders facing up to three years' imprisonment. The bill also targets individuals who promote LGBTQ+ rights, including teachers, journalists, doctors, parents, and advocates. Additionally, it proposes restrictions on media content, making digital or broadcast promotion of LGBTQ+ activities punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment.
President John Dramani Mahama recently commented on the issue, stating that while he would sign the bill into law, he believes Ghana must address its pressing issues first. During a Presidential Dialogue with Civil Society Organisations, President Mahama urged restraint and constructive engagement in ongoing national discussions on LGBTQ+ issues. He emphasized that Ghana's core values, dialogue, and the rule of law should guide the discussion.
The NPP has set a filing fee of GHS5,000 for the 2028 Parliamentary Primaries. This development is separate from the parliamentary sittings but relevant to the country's political landscape. As Parliament resumes, it will consider not only the Anti-Gay Bill but also other pressing matters.
The Anti-Gay Bill's discussion has garnered reactions from international partners, including the withdrawal of an honorary decoration by Lincoln University. These developments highlight the importance of continuous dedication and mutual respect in situating national decisions within Ghana's constitutional and cultural context.
As Parliament convenes, it will address various critical issues affecting the nation. The 2027 budget and the Anti-Gay Bill are key items on the agenda. The outcome of these discussions will have significant implications for Ghana's future.
Key points
- The Ghanaian Parliament will discuss the 2027 budget and the contentious Anti-Gay Bill during its resumed sittings.
- The Anti-Gay Bill proposes penalties for LGBTQ+ activities, advocacy, and funding.
- President John Dramani Mahama has expressed willingness to sign the bill into law but emphasizes the need to address Ghana's pressing issues first.
