NDC Defends LGBTQ Bill Passage and Presidential Commitment

Majority Chief Whip Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor has defended President John Mahama and the NDC government. He stated the party has been courageous in passing the controversial LGBTQ bill. His comments followed criticism after President Mahama’s remarks at Chatham House in London. The President indicated Parliament still had work on the bill. Constitutional and administrative processes would be followed. This triggered criticism from some bill supporters. They expected a public commitment to signing.

Dafeamekpor dismissed the criticism on JoyNews’ PM Express. He called it a misplaced criticism. He accused opponents of creating an “empty storm.” Challenges about the bill’s passage are baseless. Claims of constitutional breaches regarding quorum are unfounded. The President mentioned quorum due to the minority’s actions. No one challenged parliamentary numbers during key stages. Revisiting those proceedings is now impossible.

Current parliamentary proceedings are standard. After Parliament passes a bill, it undergoes post-passage scrutiny. Drafting also occurs before transmission to the President. Amendments must be correctly arranged. These are incorporated into the final text. The President's reference to Parliament cleaning up the bill is in order. Dafeamekpor defended Mahama not explicitly stating he would sign. These are constitutional procedures available to him. The President can seek advice from institutions.

Dafeamekpor has engaged the President privately and in groups. He met with him as parliamentary leadership. He also engaged him as a caucus and party. The President is committed. The bill was an NDC campaign promise. The President will honor this commitment. He will sign it. The President will not shy away from it. Criticisms stem from surprise at the NDC's handling. They are shocked the NDC passed this bill. They thought the bill would be a burden.

The post-passage review process will be brief. The legislation is relatively short. Dafeamekpor expects the bill to reach the President’s office soon. This should occur within a week or two. After that, the President will sign it. The NDC’s stance highlights a significant political maneuver. Critics underestimated the party's resolve. The economic implications of this bill remain to be seen. However, its passage signals a determined adherence to electoral promises.