Mahama Flags Procedural Concerns Over Anti-LGBTQ Bill

President John Mahama stated that the newly passed Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill faces more checks before becoming law. He indicated that procedural matters surrounding its passage mean there is still a significant period before assent. Mr. Mahama was speaking at Chatham House in London on June 1, 2026. He explained the bill's journey after its parliamentary approval on May 29, 2026. The bill originated as a private member’s motion, not a government initiative. It will now undergo legal and constitutional review by the Presidency. The President emphasized that his office would conduct a thorough review. "The legal representative, the legal counsel in the Presidency and the Attorney General would sit on it… and make sure that everything is in order before the president is advised to assent," he told the audience. Mr. Mahama also pointed to two key issues raised about the bill’s passage. These include concerns about the quorum when Parliament voted. There were also worries about procedural errors during the process. Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin had earlier expressed surprise at the bill’s passage. He believed it was only intended for consideration. The Speaker has called a meeting with parliamentary leadership to discuss the events of that day. Mr. Mahama is aware of this development. "I just got some communication that the Speaker was reading a statement to address the issue of the lapses in the passage of the bill," President Mahama said. He mentioned that he could send the bill to the Council of State. This advisory body would review it if substantial concerns were found. "If there are issues, substantial issues that are raised, the president would return the bill to Parliament indicating exactly what the issues are," he explained. Consequently, President Mahama believes the bill is "still quite a while to go before that bill becomes law." His comments come amidst public debate over the bill. The bill criminalizes same-sex relationships and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. Its passage also triggered a dispute over parliamentary procedure. Private legal practitioner Oliver Barker-Vormawor claimed the bill passed with only 34 members present. This number is below the constitutional quorum. He urged President Mahama to withhold his assent. However, supporters of the bill argue that parliamentary rules assume a quorum unless challenged. Akwatia MP Bernard Bediako dismissed these concerns. Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga cautioned individuals involved in LGBTQ+ practices to change their behaviour. He stated that the bill would be fully enforced once it received presidential assent. The potential impact of these procedural delays on foreign investment and international relations remains a key focus for economic observers.