Honourable Samuel Nartey George, Minister Of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations has called for the immediate progression of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill while speaking before the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee. He referenced legislative actions in other African countries to support his position.
The Ningo-Prampram MP noted that Uganda and Senegal implemented similar laws without suffering the severe economic consequences predicted by critics. He added that Senegal had even reviewed its legislation to impose stricter sanctions on prohibited activities.
He argued that Ghana’s economy would remain resilient regardless of international reactions to domestic moral legislation. He dismissed concerns about potential financial retaliation from global partners, citing the experiences of neighbouring countries.
Samuel Nartey George stressed that the current bill had undergone thorough scrutiny in previous parliamentary sessions. He said its clauses were extensively reviewed and refined to meet public expectations.
“Everyone has accepted the content of this bill as passed, and there is broad consensus across Ghana that it is fit for purpose. Mr. Chairman, I do not believe we should make any changes to its provisions, either at today’s sitting or in subsequent deliberations.”
Honourable Samuel George Nartey
He acknowledged the need to follow due process for private members’ bills but maintained that urgency remained essential. According to him, the committee must respect every stage of the legislative process while ensuring timely progress.
He also emphasised pressure from influential religious groups. He identified the Catholic Bishops’ Conference as a key body advocating the bill’s swift passage.
He further drew attention to the position of the National Chief Imam, stating that his spokesperson had expressed a desire for the bill to become law within the cleric’s lifetime.
Samuel Nartey George argued that Parliament had a moral obligation to respond to these calls. He urged colleagues to finalise the bill and forward it to the President.
He expressed confidence that President John Dramani Mahama would assent to the bill, claiming he had received assurances from the executive. “I have all the assurances that he will do the necessary when we place the bill before him,” he told the committee.
Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli backed this position, arguing that the bill should be maintained in its current form. He said the 2025 version retained nearly all provisions from the earlier draft.
The Deputy Ranking Member suggested the bill had already gained national acceptance and remained fit for purpose without further amendments.
He reminded the committee that the Private Members’ Bill Committee had previously examined the text in detail and cautioned against making changes during the current or future sittings.
According to him, public support for the bill was established during the 8th Parliament, and current deliberations merely reaffirm that consensus.
Shaibu Mahama Calls For Careful Review Of Bill
Shaibu Mahama has described the delay in assenting to the previous bill as a “blessing in disguise” for the current Parliament. He said the lapse created an opportunity for more thorough legal review.
The Chairman of the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee noted that recent developments could help shape a more refined legislative approach. He said the committee intended to incorporate previously overlooked elements.
Shaibu Mahama stressed the need to balance the bill with the fundamental rights of all citizens. He stated that the 9th Parliament had the authority to revise the document to prevent legal conflicts.
He highlighted the importance of safeguarding individuals from potential violations of their rights, adding that the review process would ensure no Ghanaian suffered unlawful restrictions. “We take cognisance of the rights of individuals who may be affected by this,” he said during proceedings.
He also pointed out that some concerns raised were already addressed under existing laws and proposed removing redundant provisions to keep the bill concise and legally sound.
He also indicated that international human rights standards would be considered during the review process. He said the goal was to develop a framework that reflects societal values while respecting legal boundaries.
He confirmed that the bill had returned to the legislative agenda for immediate consideration and outlined steps for its amendment and strengthening.
Shaibu Mahama acknowledged that legislative processes are often lengthy but insisted that a careful approach would produce a more robust and defensible law. He added that the committee would continue engaging stakeholders to ensure inclusivity in the drafting process and to uphold the national interest and the rule of law.
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