Ghana's Controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Value Bill, 2025: What It Means for Citizens

On Friday, May 29, 2026, Ghana’s Parliament passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025 popularly known as the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, by voice vote. The legislation now awaits the assent of President John Dramani Mahama. This marks the latest chapter in a long-running debate that touches on culture, religion, family values, and human rights in Ghana.16

As a concerned citizen or reader, you may be wondering: What exactly does this bill say? What changes if the President signs it? And what happens if he doesn’t? This article breaks it down clearly and factually.

Background of the Bill

The bill was first introduced in 2021 by a bipartisan group of Members of Parliament, including Samuel Nartey George (Ningo-Prampram MP) and Rev. John Ntim Fordjour (Assin South MP). A previous version passed Parliament in February 2024 but lapsed without presidential assent before the general elections.22

It was reintroduced in 2025 as a private member’s bill and fast-tracked this year. Supporters argue it protects Ghanaian cultural and religious values against what they see as foreign influences promoting non-traditional sexual practices.

What the Bill Actually Means

The bill seeks to promote “proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values” while imposing penalties on certain LGBTQ+ related activities. Here are the main points:

• Criminalization of same-sex acts: It strengthens existing laws by making engaging in same-sex sexual activities punishable by up to 3 years imprisonment.

• Promotion and advocacy: Stiffer penalties (up to 5–10 years) apply to anyone who promotes, funds, sponsors, advertises, or advocates for LGBTQ+ activities, rights, or “propaganda.” This includes producing content, organizing events, or supporting related organizations.

• Public displays and identification: Restrictions on public romantic displays between same-sex individuals and, in some contexts, identifying as LGBTQ+.

• Duty to report: In certain cases, there may be an obligation to report suspected violations.

• Exemptions (important revisions in the 2025/2026 version): To address concerns from professionals, the bill now exempts journalists reporting factually, health workers providing services (e.g., HIV prevention), psychologists, counselors, and lawyers offering legal advice.

Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga explained the amendments during debates: “The committee is trying to… narrowly set out those exceptions where when you speak you will not be considered as [promoting].” He noted that media and professionals had raised issues about free expression and professional freedom.

If President Mahama Signs the Bill

If the President assents, the bill becomes law after publication in the Ghana Gazette. Enforcement would then fall to the police and courts.

President Mahama has repeatedly pledged to sign it. In a November 2025 speech to the Christian Council of Ghana, he stated:

“The position of my government [is that] marriage is between a man and a woman… If the Parliament of the people of Ghana endorse the bill and vote on it and pass it and it comes to me as president, I will sign it.”1

Potential impacts if signed:

• Stronger legal protection for traditional family structures, welcomed by many religious bodies.

• Possible challenges for LGBTQ+ individuals, including increased stigma or discrimination.

• Effects on NGOs, health programs, and international relations — some donors have expressed concerns about human rights implications.

• Supporters like Samuel Nartey George and religious leaders view this as a victory for Ghanaian values.

Catholic Bishops and other faith leaders have congratulated Parliament on the passage, seeing it as a stand for moral standards.32

If the President Does Not Sign (Refuses Assent)

Under Article 106 of the 1992 Constitution, the President has 7 days to act after receiving the bill. He can:

1. Assent and make it law, or

2. Refuse assent and return it to Parliament with a memorandum stating reasons or suggested changes (he may also consult the Council of State).

If he refuses:

• Parliament reconsiders the bill.

• If Parliament passes it again with a two-thirds majority (at least 184 out of 275 MPs), it automatically becomes law — even without the President’s signature.

Given the strong bipartisan support shown in the recent passage, a veto is unlikely to stop the bill outright. It could, however, delay implementation and spark public and political debate. Refusal might be interpreted by supporters as yielding to international pressure, while critics might see it as protecting constitutional rights.

Why This Matters to Ordinary Ghanaians

This bill reflects deep-seated views in Ghanaian society. Many see same-sex relationships as contrary to culture, religion (Christianity, Islam, traditional beliefs), and family life. Proponents believe it safeguards children, marriage, and national identity.

At the same time, human rights organizations worry about potential overreach, impacts on freedom of expression, healthcare access, and Ghana’s international image.

Rev. John Ntim Fordjour and other MPs have emphasized that the bill represents the will of the majority of Ghanaians.

Whether you support or have concerns about the bill, its final status now rests with President Mahama and, potentially, Parliament’s override power.

This is a moment for respectful national conversation. Laws shape our society, understanding them helps us participate better as informed Ghanaians.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice. For professional interpretation, consult a qualified lawyer or official government sources.