(VIDEO) Bagbin Surprised by Passage of Human Sexual Rights Bill, Calls for Consensus
Speaker Alban Bagbin says the passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill came as a surprise, stressing the need for broader consensus on the legislation.
- Bagbin says passage of bill surprised him.
- Speaker calls for consensus on legislation.
- Majority and Minority leaders summoned for talks.
Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, has expressed surprise over the passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, stating that his expectation was for Parliament to begin consideration of the bill rather than complete its passage while he was away.
Addressing journalists in Parliament, Mr. Bagbin revealed that the development came as an unexpected outcome, explaining that the instructions he left behind were for lawmakers to commence the consideration stage of the legislation.
“In fact, when it was passed on Friday, it was even a surprise to me because I knew that they were going to start the consideration of the bill,” he said.
The Speaker emphasized the need for broad consensus on the legislation, given its significance and the public interest surrounding it. He noted that several stakeholders, including development partners and the United Nations, had submitted memoranda and proposals on the bill for Parliament’s consideration.
To address the concerns arising from the process, Mr. Bagbin has summoned leaders of both the Majority and Minority caucuses for discussions on the outcome of the proceedings and the way forward.
“This is such a critical matter that we believe there must be consensus. It’s not just about passing the bill; it’s about implementing it effectively and ensuring that it benefits the people,” he stated.
Parliament last Friday passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, popularly referred to as the anti-LGBTQ bill, after adopting a number of amendments.
Under the revised legislation, lawyers who provide legal representation or advice to LGBTQ persons are exempt from sanctions. Journalists and media organisations reporting on LGBTQ-related issues in the course of their professional duties are also protected from punishment under the law.
Additionally, healthcare professionals offering medical, psychological, surgical, or counselling services to LGBTQ individuals will not face sanctions.
The Minority Caucus opposed the amendments, arguing that the changes implied that the earlier version of the bill, which had been submitted to former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for assent, contained deficiencies.
Despite the objections raised by the Minority, Parliament approved the amended bill, paving the way for the remaining constitutional processes required before it can become law.
From Joe Boadi
