NPP Urges President Mahama to Fulfill Pledge by Signing Anti-Gay Bill
The Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr Richard Ahiagbah, has publicly called on President John Dramani Mahama to fulfil his campaign promise by signing the contentious Anti-Gay Bill into law without delay.
President Mahama Advocates for Broader Consultation
President Mahama recently proposed that a government-sponsored bill would be a more effective approach than the current Private Member’s Bill. He argued that this approach would allow for broader consultations and foster a national consensus.
During a meeting with religious leaders on Tuesday, January 14, President Mahama emphasized the importance of revising school curriculums to include moral and cultural teachings reflecting Ghanaian and African values.
NPP Accuses Mahama of Backtracking
In a Facebook post on Thursday, January 16, Mr Ahiagbah criticized President Mahama for allegedly reneging on his promise to sign the LGBTQ+ Bill in its current form—a commitment made during his 2024 general election campaign.
“H.E. John Mahama is running away from signing the LGBTQ+ Bill after promising to do so in its current form. Elections have consequences, and H.E. Mahama must not shift the goalpost. Sign the bill as you have pledged to Ghanaians… #Ghana @JDMahama @NJOAgyemang,” Mr. Ahiagbah stated.
The Controversial Anti-Gay Bill
The Anti-Gay Bill seeks to criminalize activities associated with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI) advocacy in Ghana. If passed into law, the bill would impose severe penalties on individuals promoting, funding, or supporting LGBTQI-related activities.
Arguments For and Against the Bill
Proponents of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect Ghana’s cultural and family values, which they believe are being eroded by foreign ideologies. They claim the law would safeguard the moral fabric of the nation.
On the other hand, critics—including human rights groups—have strongly condemned the bill, describing it as a violation of fundamental human rights. They argue that it infringes on freedom of expression, association, and equality under the law.
What’s Next?
The debate over the Anti-Gay Bill continues to polarize public opinion in Ghana. As the pressure mounts, all eyes are on President Mahama to see whether he will honour his campaign pledge or advocate for further revisions. The outcome will not only shape Ghana’s legal stance on LGBTQI issues but also test the nation’s commitment to balancing cultural values with human rights principles.