Ghana Parliament Approves Bill Criminalising LGBTQ+ Activities and Identity

Ghana’s parliament has approved a controversial new bill that would criminalise homosexuality and the promotion of LGBTQ+ activities, sparking intense debate both within the country and internationally.

Under the proposed legislation, individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer could face prison sentences of up to three years. The bill also introduces provisions requiring citizens to report prohibited LGBTQ+ activities or conduct to law enforcement authorities.

The legislation still requires the approval and signature of President John Dramani Mahama before it can officially become law.

The bill has received strong backing from several religious and conservative groups in Ghana, many of whom have continued to push for stricter anti-LGBTQ+ laws since President Mahama returned to office last year.

Supporters of the legislation argue that the measure is intended to protect Ghanaian cultural values, family structures, and religious beliefs. During parliamentary discussions, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, one of the sponsors of the bill, said the legislation would strengthen existing laws against same-sex relationships and make them more comprehensive.

According to him, the new law is designed to create stricter penalties against what supporters describe as LGBTQ+ practices and advocacy within the country.

The bill goes beyond criminalising same-sex relationships by also targeting individuals considered “allies” of LGBTQ+ people. Under the proposed law, those publicly supporting or advocating for LGBTQ+ rights could also face imprisonment.

However, exemptions were reportedly included for certain professionals, including legal practitioners, healthcare workers, and media personnel involved in reporting on LGBTQ+ issues or providing medical services.

The legislation has drawn criticism from international human rights organisations and advocacy groups. Human Rights Watch warned that the bill could endanger the safety of LGBTQ+ individuals and encourage surveillance, fear, and public denunciation among citizens.

Human rights advocates have also argued that the law could undermine freedom of expression, privacy rights, and access to healthcare for affected individuals.

Same-sex relationships are already criminalised in Ghana under laws dating back to the British colonial era. The newly approved bill seeks to expand those restrictions and impose tougher penalties.

This is not the first attempt by Ghanaian lawmakers to pass such legislation. A similar bill was approved in 2024 but failed to become law after former President Nana Akufo-Addo did not sign it amid ongoing legal challenges and international pressure.

President Mahama has previously expressed support for traditional definitions of gender and marriage. Shortly after taking office, he stated publicly that he believes only two genders exist — male and female — and that marriage should be between a man and a woman.

The latest development is expected to intensify global attention on Ghana’s human rights policies as debates continue over cultural values, religious beliefs, and LGBTQ+ rights across Africa.