The Parliament of Ghana has finally passed the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill after three years of its introduction in the House.

The bill was passed on Wednesday, February 28. 2024, following a voice vote after the completion of the third reading.

There were several attempts to block it, which were rejected by the Speaker, Alban Bagbin.

The bill is expected to be forwarded to President Akufo-Addo for his assent.

It would be recalled that on February 21, the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin withdrew several amendments he had proposed to the bill.

However, during the deliberation stage of the bill on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, Mr Afenyo-Markin restated his position on the bill, arguing that he was opposed to certain aspects of the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill.

“You cannot — let’s not be too emotional about this; let’s be consistent. You are saying that you are protecting press freedom, so you are subjecting that provision to the constitutional imperative,” he said.

The Majority leader added “And I’m pointing out to you that this particular provision must also be subjected to the constitution, and Article 17 is a major guide.”

He concluded by stating that he supports aspects of the bill that align with human rights.

By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme