The Minority in Parliament has accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government of going against its earlier promises and weakening the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, June 1, the Member of Parliament for Assin South and one of the sponsors of the bill, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, said the Minority supports the purpose of the bill.
However, they strongly disagree with the many changes that have been made to it.
According to him, the concern is not about the bill itself but about the major amendments made to the original version that Parliament passed in 2024.
He said several sections have been removed, rewritten, or replaced with new provisions, changing the bill significantly.
Rev. Ntim Fordjour argued that the NDC had previously promised Ghanaians that it would pass the bill in its original form. He believes the government has now changed its position.
“22 original provisions of the bill had to be deleted, redrafted and 31 insertions made before President Mahama would have it, desire it, and sign it. Was that the promise? Was the promise to come and dilute the bill before he signs?
“You all remember, the promise was clear: ‘Vote for me, and I will come and sign it, vote NPP out because they won’t sign it. NDC will come and sign it’. They did not say NDC will come and amend it. That is a scam, and that is a breach of trust. That is hypocrisy, and that is deception,” he said.
On Friday, May 30, Parliament passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, with several amendments.
Under the revised bill, lawyers who provide legal advice or represent people identified as LGBTQ+ will not face punishment under the law.
Journalists and media organisations reporting on LGBTQ+ issues as part of their professional work are also protected.
The bill also exempts healthcare professionals, including doctors, psychologists, counsellors, and surgeons, who provide services to LGBTQ+ persons.
These professionals will not be penalised for carrying out their duties under the proposed law.
The Minority believes these changes weaken the bill’s original intent and has criticised the government for introducing them after previously supporting the earlier version.
