The Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to fulfill his 2024 campaign promise by signing the controversial Anti-Gay Bill into law without delay.
Mahama’s Stance on the Anti-Gay Bill
President Mahama recently suggested that a government-sponsored version of the bill would be more effective than the current Private Member’s Bill. He argued that such an approach would ensure broader consultation and foster national consensus.
Speaking during a meeting with Ghana’s Bishops on January 14, 2025, President Mahama also emphasized the need for moral and cultural education in schools to instill Ghanaian and African values in children.
Ahiagbah’s Criticism
In a Facebook post on January 16, 2025, Mr. Ahiagbah accused the President of reneging on his promise to approve the bill as it stands, calling it a shift in position that contradicts Mahama’s campaign rhetoric.
“H.E. John Mahama is running away from signing the LGBTQ+ Bill after promising to do so in its current form. Elections have consequences, and H.E. Mahama must not shift the goalpost. Sign the bill as you have pledged to Ghanaians,” Ahiagbah wrote, tagging the President and key political figures.
Overview of the Anti-Gay Bill
The bill seeks to criminalize activities associated with LGBTQI+ advocacy, including promotion, funding, and provision of support. If enacted, violators could face severe penalties.
Proponents argue the legislation is essential for preserving Ghanaian cultural values and family structures against perceived foreign influences. Critics, however, warn that the bill infringes on fundamental human rights, such as freedom of expression, equality, and association.
Public and Political Divide
The bill has sparked intense debate in Ghana and internationally, with religious groups and cultural leaders largely supporting it, while human rights organizations and some global partners express deep concern.
What’s Next?
As pressure mounts on President Mahama to take a definitive stance, the future of the bill remains uncertain. While proponents expect immediate approval, critics advocate for a reconsideration of its implications for Ghana’s human rights obligations and international reputation.