The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, has reaffirmed that the proposed Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill remains a key national priority, despite growing debate over its relevance compared to other pressing issues.
Speaking to the media on Friday, April 10, the Ningo-Prampram MP pushed back against critics who argue that Ghana should focus more on economic and social challenges, insisting that such views overlook serious incidents happening within society.
His comments come after President John Dramani Mahama, during a meeting with civil society organisations at Jubilee House on March 30, suggested that while the bill is important, it is not among the country’s most urgent concerns.
“We are still grappling with the provisions of basic needs of education, health care, jobs, food, clothing, and shelter,” the President noted.
The President’s remarks have since sparked mixed reactions, with some religious groups and critics accusing the government of sending conflicting signals on the bill’s urgency.
Responding to the backlash, Sam George maintained that the legislation addresses critical issues related to family values and protection.
“People don’t understand what this is about,” he said, citing a recent case he was involved in. “Just last week, I had to help a father whose 21-year-old son had been abducted.”
He added that with the assistance of law enforcement, the individual was successfully rescued, stressing that such incidents highlight the need for the bill.
Sam George further argued that Ghana is capable of tackling multiple national priorities simultaneously, rejecting the notion that attention to the bill should come at the expense of development.
“To those who say we have other priorities, this is a priority for us,” he stated. “Any country worth its salt can deal with multiple priorities at the same time.”
Using infrastructure and social development as examples, he explained:
“We’re not saying we should stop building roads because we don’t have enough hospital beds. We’re not saying we should stop building schools because we don’t have enough pipe-borne water… we will also deal with our family values.”
The lawmaker also pointed to his electoral mandate as evidence of public backing, revealing that his increased vote margin reflects strong support from his constituents.
“As for me, as the Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, the people voted for me… They said, ‘Sam, go back to Parliament and make sure this bill is passed,’” he said.
He concluded by reiterating that the bill remains a priority alongside development projects in his constituency, including roads, healthcare facilities, schools, and water systems.
