Christian Council Backs Mahama’s Decision to Review Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

The Christian Council of Ghana has expressed support for President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to subject the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, widely known as the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, to further constitutional and legal review before taking a final decision on it.

President Mahama, during a recent visit to the United Kingdom, indicated that the proposed legislation would undergo additional scrutiny to ensure it complies with all constitutional requirements before any action is taken regarding assent.

Speaking in an interview with Citi News, the Christian Council’s Coordinator for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations, Rev. Jehodia Godwin Amuzu, described the President’s approach as prudent and in line with his constitutional mandate.

According to Rev. Amuzu, the President has a responsibility to seek legal guidance and ensure the bill can withstand any potential constitutional challenge.

“The President, as Head of State, must allow his advisers to thoroughly examine the bill to ensure it satisfies all constitutional requirements. Otherwise, the legislation could be challenged in court and struck down,” he stated.

He urged Ghanaians to remain patient and allow due process to take its course.

“We must appreciate that this is how democracy works. Decisions of this nature cannot be made arbitrarily. We should give the President the benefit of the doubt and allow the constitutional processes to be completed,” he added.

Rev. Amuzu further disclosed that during previous engagements with religious leaders, President Mahama had indicated his willingness to assent to the bill once it is presented to him.

“He assured us that when the bill reaches his desk, he will assent to it. However, from the indications we are receiving, the scrutiny is necessary because the bill is not government-sponsored. The aim is to ensure it is legally sound and fit for purpose,” he explained.

The Christian Council official also welcomed recent calls by Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin for lawmakers to revisit the bill, describing the ongoing public discourse as a positive feature of democratic governance.

“I believe this is healthy for our democracy. We are not operating under an authoritarian system. Democracy thrives on participation, dialogue and accountability. Citizens have every right to take an interest in matters before Parliament and government, while ensuring that the necessary checks and balances are maintained,” he said.

His comments come amid renewed public debate over the future of the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill and the respective roles of Parliament and the Executive in determining its eventual outcome.