The President has emphasized the need for wider stakeholder engagement before any attempt to revive the anti-LGBTQ bill, which expired earlier this year. Speaking to Bloomberg on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference last month, he underscored the importance of Ghanaian cultural values, stressing that they are not only upheld through legislation but also through education, upbringing, and societal reinforcement.
The Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ bill, was first introduced in Parliament with strong backing from several MPs and religious groups. However, a legal challenge delayed its progress, and it eventually expired without presidential assent. Some MPs and advocacy groups have since called for its reintroduction, arguing that it reflects the moral and cultural values of the majority of Ghanaians.
The President, however, insisted that before any new bill is considered, a more inclusive dialogue is necessary. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that all key stakeholders—traditional leaders, religious organizations, human rights groups, legal experts, and the general public—are properly engaged to avoid rushed legislation that may have unintended consequences.
Addressing concerns about potential economic implications, he dismissed the idea that global financial institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) should dictate cultural policies. He stated that while these institutions have the prerogative to make funding decisions, cultural identity and national values should not be compromised for financial aid.
“The world is diverse, and different societies have different beliefs and cultural norms,” he remarked. “Multilateral institutions should not impose cultural conditions as part of their mandates.”
With the expiration of the previous bill, any new attempt to pass similar legislation would require fresh parliamentary proceedings. The direction of the debate will largely depend on the positions of lawmakers, civil society, and religious leaders, who have been vocal on both sides of the issue. As discussions unfold, Ghanaians will be keenly watching to see how Parliament navigates the complex intersection of law, culture, and international relations.
