A sponsor of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, has attributed the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) defeat in the 2024 General Elections to former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s decision not to assent to the bill.
The bill, which sought to criminalise Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBTQ+) activities in Ghana, was passed by the 8th Parliament but remained unsigned before the legislature was dissolved.
Speaking to Citi News, the Assin South MP said the outcome of the 2024 elections could have been different if Akufo-Addo had assented to the bill, which enjoyed overwhelming public support at the time.
“If President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo had been able to sign this bill, it would have served this nation a lot better, and it would have even enhanced the image of my party. And I dare say that the outcome of the election in 2024 would have been different.
“It would have been different; the outcome would have been different. I have said it way before we voted, after we voted, and before handing over, and so my position has been consistent, and my position has not changed,” he stated.
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill seeks to impose stringent restrictions on LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana. It proposes custodial sentences for individuals engaged in same-sex relationships, public displays of affection, and the promotion of LGBTQ+ content.
Meanwhile, 10 lawmakers, including Rev. Fordjour and Ningo-Prampram MP, Sam George, are set to reintroduce the bill for consideration in the current Parliament.
President John Dramani Mahama has previously expressed support for the principles behind the bill but insists such legislation should be introduced by the government rather than through a private member’s initiative.
If enacted, the bill would significantly broaden Ghana’s existing laws against LGBTQ+ activities and introduce tougher penalties for individuals and organisations found to be in violation.
