Ghana passes anti-gay bill into law

After nearly three years since its introduction in the House, Parliament of Ghana has finally passed the controversial Anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law on Wednesday, February 28. The passage occurred via a voice vote after the completion of the third reading and several unsuccessful attempts to block it, which were rejected by the Speaker, Alban Bagbin.

The bill is now expected to be forwarded to President Akufo-Addo for his assent. On February 21, the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, withdrew several amendments he had proposed to the bill.

During the deliberation stage of the bill on the floor of Parliament, Mr Afenyo-Markin restated his position on the bill, expressing opposition to certain aspects of it. He emphasized the importance of not enacting measures that prohibit individuals or groups from supporting vulnerable members of society and called for consistency in aligning provisions with the constitution.

The Majority Leader also stated his support for aspects of the bill that align with human rights.