The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has assured the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, that Parliament will reconsider and pass the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, popularly known as the anti-LGBTQ Bill, before the House goes on recess on Friday, July 31, 2026.
Mr Bagbin said the bill, in its current form, requires further review, particularly three key clauses relating to sentencing provisions. He explained that the reconsideration is aimed at addressing concerns over the punishment regime outlined in the legislation before it is returned to the House for final approval.
Speaking during a visit to the National Chief Imam, the Speaker said Parliament remains committed to completing the process before the recess period begins, stressing that the matter should not be interpreted from a political perspective.
“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,” Mr Bagbin said.
“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 generated significant public debate since it was reintroduced in Parliament. Supporters of the legislation argue that it seeks to protect Ghanaian cultural and family values, while critics have expressed concerns about some of its provisions, including sections dealing with criminal penalties.
Mr Bagbin’s comments come as Parliament prepares to rise for recess, with attention now focused on whether lawmakers will complete consideration of the outstanding clauses and conclude the passage process before the July 31 deadline.
The Speaker’s assurance to the National Chief Imam signals Parliament’s intention to resolve the remaining issues surrounding the bill ahead of the break.
