Cabinet approves bill to regulate public relations in Ghana

Alban Bagbin pledges passage of Proper Human Sexual Rights Bill

Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, widely known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, becomes law. Speaking during a recent engagement, Bagbin assured the public that the legislation would be brought back to the floor for a second consideration during the next parliamentary sitting. This procedural move is intended to address technical errors identified during its initial passage, which critics and legal observers have previously noted as a hurdle to its final enactment. The Speaker explained that the upcoming parliamentary session would focus on rectifying specific errors that occurred during the bill's first pass through the House. Bagbin acknowledged that the initial process was somewhat rushed, leading to procedural or textual oversights that must be corrected to ensure the law stands up to legal scrutiny. He emphasized that the bill is not merely a political instrument but a priority for the Ghanaian people, stating that the legislation "means a lot to Ghanaians" and should be viewed as a collective national effort rather than a partisan battle. In his address, Bagbin called for consensus among members of Parliament, urging them to set aside partisan divisions to facilitate the bill's smooth progression. He praised the efforts of those involved in the legislative process, specifically mentioning Ningo-Prampram Member of Parliament Samuel Nartey George for his significant contributions to the debate. The Speaker's rhetoric underscored a firm personal commitment, as he declared that the bill would become the "law of the land" for as long as he remains in his position at the head of the legislature. The bill, which seeks to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities and advocacy in Ghana, has been a subject of intense national and international debate. While proponents argue it protects traditional family values, human rights groups have raised concerns regarding its impact on fundamental freedoms. The Speaker’s latest assurance signals a renewed legislative push as Parliament prepares for its next session, setting the stage for what is expected to be a high-profile second consideration phase to finalize the document for presidential assent.