The Minority in Parliament has called for the reinstatement of the original Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, arguing that recent amendments have weakened the legislation and undermined its intended purpose.
Addressing a press conference on Monday, June 1, the Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, who sponsored the bill, described the changes as “dangerous dilutions” that have stripped the legislation of its deterrent effect.
According to him, the amended version no longer reflects the bill that was passed by Parliament in 2024 and fails to provide the strong enforcement mechanisms contained in the original draft.
“These are dangerous dilutions we should not allow to go like that. We want the old bill to come. The old bill is what has the teeth; the deterrence and the teeth to bite,” Rev. Ntim Fordjour stated.
He maintained that the Minority Caucus is committed to pushing for the restoration of the earlier version, which he said carried clearer provisions and stronger punitive measures.
The Assin South legislator further argued that the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) had previously supported the original bill and pledged to sign it without substantial modifications. He claimed the recent amendments represent a departure from that position and risk eroding public confidence in the legislative process.
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, was passed by Parliament on Friday, May 29, with several amendments that have generated renewed political debate over its scope and implementation.
Among the key changes, legal practitioners who offer advice or representation to persons identified as LGBTQ+ are exempt from sanctions under the bill. Journalists and media organisations reporting on LGBTQ+ issues in the course of their professional duties are also protected from punishment.
The amended legislation further exempts medical professionals, including doctors, psychologists and counsellors, who provide healthcare and support services to LGBTQ+ persons.
The Minority, however, contends that these exemptions significantly alter the original intent of the legislation and diminish its effectiveness. The caucus is therefore calling on Parliament to restore the previous version of the bill in its entirety.
