Ghanaian President John Mahama has said a newly passed bill that would significantly tighten restrictions on LGBTQ+ activities will undergo legal scrutiny before receiving final approval, signaling that the legislation may still face hurdles despite securing parliamentary backing, according to the BBC.
Speaking during a visit to the United Kingdom, Mahama said the proposed law would be examined by his legal advisers and the attorney general because it originated as a private members’ bill rather than government-sponsored legislation. He added that authorities would ensure all legal and procedural requirements had been met before any further steps are taken.
The bill, approved by Ghana’s parliament last week, proposes prison sentences of up to three years for individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer. It also includes provisions requiring citizens to report prohibited activities to law enforcement authorities, a measure that has drawn criticism from human rights organizations. According to the BBC, Mahama indicated that the legislation could also be referred to the Council of State, a body that advises the president, if legal concerns arise.
The Ghanaian leader acknowledged that procedural issues related to the bill's passage were being addressed by parliament. His comments came during a question-and-answer session at Chatham House in London, where he noted that concerns had been raised regarding aspects of the legislative process.
The legislation marks the second attempt by lawmakers to enact one of Africa’s most restrictive anti-LGBTQ+ laws. A previous version was introduced in 2021 and later passed by parliament in 2024, but former President Nana Akufo-Addo did not sign it into law before leaving office. At the time, legal challenges filed before Ghana’s Supreme Court contributed to delays in its approval, the BBC reported.
The current bill was reintroduced this year by a cross-party group of legislators. While supporters argue that the measure is necessary to protect what they describe as traditional Ghanaian family values, critics contend that it would further marginalize sexual minorities and undermine fundamental rights.
One of the most controversial provisions targets individuals who openly support LGBTQ+ rights. Under the legislation, those identifying as allies of LGBTQ+ people could face prison sentences, although exemptions were introduced for healthcare workers, legal professionals, and journalists providing services or reporting on LGBTQ+ issues.
Human rights organizations have strongly opposed the bill. Human Rights Watch urged Ghanaian authorities to abandon the legislation, arguing that it violates the rights and freedoms of sexual minorities. Advocacy groups have also warned that the law could encourage discrimination and create a climate of fear among LGBTQ+ communities.
The debate reflects a broader trend across parts of Africa, where several governments have recently moved to strengthen anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. Senegal approved legislation earlier this year increasing penalties related to same-sex relations, while Uganda's controversial 2023 law introduced harsh penalties, including the possibility of the death penalty for certain same-sex acts.
Mahama’s decision to subject the bill to additional review suggests that its final fate remains uncertain, even as pressure from religious and conservative groups continues to mount on his administration to adopt tougher measures against LGBTQ+ activities. According to the BBC, the president has indicated that the government will carefully assess the legislation before deciding whether it should ultimately become law.
