Parliament has passed the re-introduced Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, also known as the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, following the conclusion of its third reading on Friday, May 29, 2026.
The House approved the bill after amendments were made to an earlier version that had been passed under former President Akufo-Addo. The second reading of the revised bill took place on Thursday, May 28, before it was subsequently considered and passed at the third reading stage a day later.
Declaring the result, the First Deputy Speaker, Bernard Ahiafor, who presided over proceedings, stated: “Honourable members, the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2025 is duly read for the third time and passed.”
One of the key amendments introduced into the new version of the bill is clause nine, which provides exemptions for individuals offering legal services to persons who identify as LGBTQ+. It also exempts journalists and media organisations reporting on LGBTQ+ related issues in the normal course of their work, as well as medical professionals, psychologists, counsellors, and others providing health-related services.
The Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, explained that the amendments were designed to clearly define the scope of the law and ensure that routine professional duties are not misinterpreted as promoting LGBTQ+ activities.
However, the Minority side strongly opposed the changes, arguing that the revised provisions undermine the original intent of the bill.
The Minority MPs for Bosome-Freho and Assin South, Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh and John Ntim Fordjour, both rejected the amendments during the debate.
Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh argued that the exemptions suggested the earlier version of the bill was not adequately prepared for assent, insisting that the new changes significantly alter its intent.
John Ntim Fordjour also expressed concern, stating that the exemptions for NGOs, academic work, media reporting, and professional services weaken the purpose of the legislation. He warned that attempts to include such provisions would be resisted by the Minority, even if the Majority proceeds with its numbers.
