Mahama Has Not Breached Anti-LGBTQ Bill Promise — Akwatia MP
Bernard Bediako Baidoo says John Dramani Mahama cannot act until Parliament completes work on the bill
- Baidoo says bill still before Parliament, no breach yet
- Rejects Minority calls for apology
- Blames Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for not assenting earlier
The Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Bernard Bediako Baidoo has defended John Dramani Mahama, insisting that the President has not broken any promise regarding the proposed anti-LGBTQ legislation, as the bill is still under consideration in Parliament.
Baidoo said it is too early to criticise the President since the legislative process has not been completed or presented to him for assent. He stressed that under Ghana’s constitutional framework, the President cannot interfere with parliamentary proceedings.
His comments come in response to claims by the Minority, led by John Ntim Fordjour, who alleged that there are attempts to introduce LGBTQ-related provisions into the Constitution through the ongoing review process. The Minority has also called on the President and the National Democratic Congress to apologise to religious and traditional leaders.
However, Baidoo rejected those demands, arguing that the New Patriotic Party lacks the moral authority to criticise the current administration on the matter. He maintained that Parliament must be allowed to complete its work before any judgment is made.
He questioned what action the President could realistically take at this stage, noting that only after the bill is passed and submitted can the President decide whether to assent or not.
Baidoo also referenced former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, accusing his administration of failing to sign the bill despite having the opportunity before leaving office.
According to him, calls for an apology are premature, emphasising that President Mahama can only be held accountable once the legislative process is concluded and the bill is formally presented to him.
