The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has assured the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, that the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, widely known as the anti LGBTQ Bill, will return before Parliament for reconsideration and is expected to be completed before the House begins its scheduled recess on Friday, July 31, 2026.
Mr Bagbin disclosed that the legislation, which has generated intense national discussion since its introduction, requires further examination before final approval, particularly concerning three important clauses connected to the sentencing provisions contained in the bill.
According to the Speaker, the review process is aimed at addressing concerns surrounding the punishment framework outlined in the proposed legislation, ensuring that the provisions receive the necessary attention before Parliament takes a final decision.
Speaking during a visit to the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, Mr Bagbin explained that Parliament remains committed to concluding the outstanding aspects of the bill before lawmakers leave for recess.
He emphasised that the reconsideration of the legislation should not be interpreted as a political exercise, arguing that the process is part of Parliament’s responsibility to carefully examine and complete its legislative duties.
“Our intention is to do it before we go on recess. We are likely to do so even by tomorrow so that it assures you that the members you elected to Parliament are doing what you have asked them to do,” the Speaker stated.
Mr Bagbin further rejected suggestions that the matter was being influenced by political interests, insisting that the issue transcends party politics and reflects broader concerns expressed by sections of Ghanaian society.
“There is no politics at all. Anybody who wants to take political advantage, just disregard it. Both Muslims and Christians agree, even the unbelievers know that if we don’t pass it, we are acting against the decree of God,” he added.
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill has remained one of the most debated pieces of legislation in Ghana’s Fourth Republic, attracting strong reactions from religious groups, traditional leaders, civil society organisations, international observers and political actors.
Supporters of the bill argue that the legislation is necessary to protect Ghana’s cultural identity, family values and religious beliefs, insisting that Parliament has a responsibility to reflect the moral position of the majority of citizens.
However, critics of the proposed law have expressed concerns about sections of the legislation, particularly provisions relating to criminal sanctions, individual rights and possible implications for constitutional protections.
The debate surrounding the bill has placed Ghana at the centre of wider international discussions about the relationship between cultural values, religious beliefs, human rights obligations and constitutional governance.
Mr Bagbin’s latest comments come as Parliament approaches the end of its current sitting period, increasing attention on whether lawmakers will complete the review of the disputed clauses and approve the final version of the legislation before the scheduled recess.
The Speaker’s assurance to the National Chief Imam signals Parliament’s intention to resolve the outstanding issues surrounding the bill within the current session, although the final outcome will depend on the deliberations and decisions of lawmakers when the matter returns to the chamber.
The conclusion of the legislative process is expected to have significant historical consequences, as the bill remains one of the most consequential and closely watched parliamentary debates in Ghana’s recent political history. Its final passage or further amendment will shape national conversations on morality, religion, constitutional rights and the role of Parliament in responding to deeply held societal beliefs.
