Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Samuel Nartey George, has indicated that the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill could potentially be approved around the Easter season.
In an interview with Accra-based Citi FM, George shared insights into the bill’s progress, stating, “They are nearly 60% through the consideration process. Hopefully, after another two weeks of parliamentary work upon resumption, the consideration phase should be completed. The third reading is essentially a procedural step; the bill is read, and then it is passed.”
George, a key proponent of the legislation, mentioned, “In fact, during the first session of the upcoming meeting, scheduled to run from the 6th of February to the end of March or early April, we believe that we should pass the bill before Easter. I think it is something we should give as an Easter gift from Parliament to the nation. So we would strive to work with the speaker and the committee chair.”
The bill aims to criminalize LGBTQ+ and associated activities, prohibit the promotion or advocacy for LGBTQ+ activities, and establish measures for the protection and assistance of individuals, especially children, affected by or accused of engaging in LGBTQ+ and related activities.
Among the proposed penalties, the bill seeks to make same-sex relationships, including oral and anal activities, punishable with imprisonment, carrying penalties ranging from five to 10 years. This controversial legislation has sparked heated debates in Ghana, with proponents emphasizing the protection of traditional values and opponents critiquing it as a violation of human rights.
As parliamentary proceedings on the bill unfold, the nation awaits the outcome with heightened attention and ongoing discussions.
