Sam George, Minister-designate for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, has reaffirmed his commitment to reintroducing the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill in Ghana’s 9th Parliament, despite its previous failure to secure presidential assent under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
The bill, initially introduced under the previous administration by Sam George and other parliamentarians, was passed but never signed into law by President Akufo-Addo, who cited legal concerns. However, following the dissolution of the 8th Parliament, the bill expired, leading to renewed efforts by its proponents to push it forward once again.
Speaking on the future of the bill, Sam George insisted that it remains a “critical part of our national life” and emphasized the need to protect Ghanaian family values.
“Ghanaian family values, our children’s innocence must be protected,” he stressed, reiterating his stance on the issue.
According to the Ningo-Prampram MP, the bill will be reintroduced regardless of the form it takes. “In this 9th Parliament, that bill will be reintroduced either as a Private Members’ Bill or as a government bill. I will work with government if it is a government bill. If it is not, and it is my bill, I will bring it back again,” he declared.
Sam George also highlighted the role of traditional authorities in influencing his decision. “My Chief seated, the Chiefs from Ningo and Prampram, supported me in bringing that bill in the 8th Parliament. They’ve asked me to reintroduce it in the 9th Parliament, and I will do so,” he assured.
Beyond the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, Sam George also hinted at new initiatives to combat cybercrime in the country. “We will do re-registration to ensure KPIs to reduce cybercrime,” he stated, underscoring his broader agenda as Minister-designate for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations.
With President John Dramani Mahama now in office, questions remain over whether the bill will finally receive presidential assent, but Sam George appears resolute in his mission to see it through.
The revival of the bill is likely to spark renewed national and international debate, with human rights groups expected to oppose it while traditionalists and conservatives rally behind it. As the 9th Parliament convenes, the fate of the bill remains a hot-button issue in Ghanaian politics.
