Damongo MP Samuel Abu Jinapor has accused the government of weakening the anti-LGBTQ bill. He states that the current Parliament has diluted the legislation passed in 2024. Mr. Jinapor is calling for President John Dramani Mahama to sign the original bill without changes. This statement comes amid renewed national debate on the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.
Mr. Jinapor alleges the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) has strayed from its promise. They had previously committed to supporting the bill in its 2024 form. The bill was passed by the 8th Parliament. However, it did not receive presidential assent due to Supreme Court challenges. The NDC had indicated a willingness to sign it if elected to power.
Following the bill's reintroduction in 2025, the governing majority made significant changes. Parliament approved 31 amendments before passing a revised bill on May 29, 2026. Mr. Jinapor claims these changes have substantially altered the bill's effectiveness. The amended version is markedly different from the 2024 legislation.
A key concern for Mr. Jinapor involves provisions on promoting LGBTQ activities. He argues the amended bill creates broad exemptions. These exemptions cover health-related programs run by government institutions and NGOs. Development partners and academic institutions also benefit from these exemptions. Mr. Jinapor fears this allows LGBTQ advocacy under the guise of public health initiatives.
He also criticises a new clause. This clause states the Act will not limit the lawful duties of institutions. Mr. Jinapor believes this offers legal protection to organizations engaging in otherwise prohibited activities. He asserts these amendments undermine the bill's core aim. That aim is to prohibit LGBTQ activities and promotion of traditional family values.
Mr. Jinapor referred to past remarks by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga. He suggested these remarks indicated a softer approach to LGBTQ advocacy. He believes these events confirm the amended bill deviates from the original intent. Mr. Jinapor maintains the government should pass the original 2024 bill verbatim. He stated, "The government should assent to the 2024 bill as passed, or reintroduce and pass the same bill verbatim for assent by the President." He added, "It is as simple as that."
The anti-LGBTQ bill remains a highly debated topic. Religious groups, traditional leaders, and civil society organisations hold strong views. Human rights advocates and international bodies also weigh in. Supporters argue it protects Ghanaian cultural values. Critics cite concerns about constitutional rights and human freedoms.
President Mahama has indicated substantial work remains. This includes further consultations and advice from the Counsel of State. Such a process is necessary before he can assent to the bill. The economic and social implications of this legislation continue to be significant and widely discussed.