Ghanaian Parliament Unanimously Approves “Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2022”
Ghana’s Parliament, in a unanimous decision on Wednesday, endorsed the “Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2022.” The primary aim of this legislation is to define and uphold proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values while prohibiting activities related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ+).
The bill has now advanced to the consideration stage, with the next step being the third reading before its potential passage into law. During the second reading, Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin sought the House’s opinion, and there was unanimous support for the bill’s adoption by all 275 Members of Parliament.
The bipartisan Private Members’ Bill was introduced by a group of eight MPs, led by Mr. Samuel Nartey George, an MP from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) representing Ningo-Prampram. Other contributors include members from both the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Mr. George, the lead sponsor, highlighted the perceived dangers of homosexuality, citing statistics indicating higher rates of obesity, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts among LGBTQ+ individuals. He emphasized the impact on the country’s health bill and public health.
While Mr. Bernard Ahiafor, NDC MP for Akatsi South, asserted that the bill’s passage would not violate any international treaty, Mr. Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, Chairman of the Committee on Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs, acknowledged human rights concerns but noted widespread public support for the bill.
In accordance with Article 12(1) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, which emphasizes upholding fundamental human rights, Mr. Anyimadu-Antwi highlighted the constitutional duty of all state organs to respect these rights.
Mr. Cletus Avoka, NDC MP for Zebilla, commended the bill’s sponsors, acknowledging potential financial implications upon implementation. He appealed to the President to support and sponsor the bill’s passage into law.
Mr. Andrew Asiama Amoako, Second Deputy Speaker and NPP MP for Fomena, urged unity within the House to ensure the bill’s successful passage.
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