The Human Rights and Family Values Bill, also known as the anti-lgbtq bill has been reintroduced in parliament, says MP for Assin North, Reverend Ntim Fordjour.
The bill was passed in the 8th parliament, but did not receive a presidential assent before the expiration of the former administration. The anti-gay bill is being proposed by six people altogether, including MP for Ningo Prampram, Sam Nartey George and MP for Assin North, Rev. Ntim Fordjour. These two individuals have been the foremen championing the criminalization of lgbtq+ activities in the country.
Having failed to receive the president’s assent for the successful legalization of the bill in the 8 parliament, the two MPs promised to reintroduce it upon the constitution of the 9th parliament, adding that they would not back down until the new president gives his assent.
In an interview on Citi News, Rev. Fordjour said himself, Sam George and four others have reintroduced the bill to parliament.
“Myself, Sam George, Hon Bedzrah, Hon Alhassan Tampuli, Hon Abdul Kabiru, and Hon Ekow Vincent – we have reintroduced it to support the speedy passage of the bill so that he can assent to it. It has been admitted and received, and the processes will now be sent in motion,” he said on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
At least, one can expect an expedited process for the passage of the bill in parliament, as the speaker himself is known to be a staunch supporter of the bill and has always promised to ensure its passage.
Rev. Fordjour disclosed support from various conservative groups such as religious and traditional leaders, expressing optimism for a successful passage.
It is also expected that various human rights activist groups, who have had to withdraw their legal case against the bill in court would renew the process. Upon the expiration of the 8th parliament, which, in effect, rendered the passage of the bill inactive, legal cases against it became invalid.
Notable amongst the legal cases is the recent discontinuation of case filed against the bill by legal practitioner, Richard Dela Sky, who sought to contend the legality of the bill as juxtapozed to the provisions on human rights in the constitution. Lawyers of Richard filed a notice of discontinuation is he “decided to let the sleeping dogs lie in this matter.”
Source: Dehotpress
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