Former MP Says Reversing Anti-LGBTQ Bill is Difficult

Former Abuakwa South MP Samuel Atta-Akyea has stated that reversing the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, will be very difficult. Ghana's Parliament passed the controversial bill on May 29, 2026. Atta-Akyea believes the legislative process cannot be easily undone at this stage.

His remarks follow concerns raised by Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin. Speaker Bagbin called for a review of the bill's passage before it goes to the President. Atta-Akyea argued that once Parliament concludes a bill's consideration, the presiding officer's declaration makes it final. He noted that the First Deputy Speaker oversaw the bill's approval. This makes it hard to revisit the decision.

Ghana's legislative process is a key part of its governance. Bills must follow specific steps to become law. The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, often called the anti-LGBTQ bill, has been a subject of much debate. Its passage reflects ongoing social and cultural discussions in the country. The process aims to ensure laws are carefully considered. However, procedural finality is also a core principle.

Speaking on Citi FM on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, Atta-Akyea expressed doubt about how the Speaker could legally reopen the matter. "I wonder how the Speaker is going to use any of the rules to reverse what has been concluded," he stated. He added that it represents "a very tall order." This suggests a strong belief that the bill has completed its parliamentary journey.

The implications for the bill are significant. If Atta-Akyea's view holds, the bill will likely proceed for presidential assent without further parliamentary review. This could lead to its immediate enactment into law. Stakeholders watching Ghana's legislative and social climate will monitor any response from the Speaker's office or other parliamentary leaders.