Sam George Defends Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, Denies Sponsors Have Abandoned It
MP insists legislation remains active as Parliament reviews proposal
Sam Nartey George has dismissed claims that sponsors of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill have abandoned the legislation following his appointment to a ministerial role.
Speaking during stakeholder engagements, he maintained that the bill remains firmly before Parliament, stressing that due process is being followed.
“I have heard people say that we have run away because I’ve been appointed minister. The process is the process,” he stated.
His comments align with those of co-sponsor John Ntim Fordjour, who has also rejected suggestions that the bill has been shelved.
Sam George indicated that lawmakers have already scrutinised the clauses of the bill and expect minimal amendments going forward. “As for the clauses, we have gone through them… the body of the law remains the same,” he said.
He further referenced appeals from key religious bodies, including the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference and the office of the National Chief Imam, urging Parliament to take their positions into account.
The MP also expressed confidence that John Dramani Mahama would assent to the bill once it is passed, although he did not provide specific details.
The bill, which seeks to criminalise LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, was passed by a previous Parliament but lapsed after it was not assented to by the President at the time.
