The Christian Council of Ghana has expressed support for President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to subject the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, popularly referred to as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, to additional review before making a final determination on it.
Speaking during a recent visit to the United Kingdom, President Mahama stated that the bill would undergo further examination to ensure it complies fully with constitutional provisions before any decision on assent is taken.
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Commenting on the president’s position in an interview with Citi News, the Christian Council’s Coordinator for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations, Rev. Jehodia Godwin Amuzu, described the move as prudent and in line with the president’s constitutional obligations.
Rev. Amuzu noted that the president is entitled to seek guidance from legal and constitutional experts to verify that the proposed legislation satisfies all legal requirements and can withstand any potential court challenge.
He explained that, as the head of state, the president must allow his advisers to thoroughly assess the bill to ensure it meets constitutional standards.
Failure to do so, he warned, could leave the legislation vulnerable to being overturned if challenged in court.
He therefore urged the public to remain patient, stressing that due process is an essential aspect of democratic governance.
According to him, decisions of such significance must follow established legal procedures rather than being made arbitrarily.
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Rev. Amuzu also recalled previous engagements between religious leaders and President Mahama, during which the president reportedly indicated his willingness to sign the bill if it was presented to him.
He suggested that the current review process may be influenced by the fact that the legislation was introduced as a private member’s bill rather than a government-sponsored one.
According to him, the Christian Council’s understanding is that authorities are simply ensuring the legislation is legally sound and capable of achieving its intended purpose before any final action is taken.
The Christian Council representative further welcomed recent appeals by Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin for lawmakers to revisit discussions on the bill.
He described such consultations and public engagement as positive elements of a functioning democracy.
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Rev. Amuzu emphasised that democratic governance thrives on participation, debate, and accountability, noting that citizens have a legitimate role in scrutinising the actions of both Parliament and the Executive.
While Parliament operates under its own rules, he said democratic checks and balances require public involvement and oversight.
He added that active citizen participation strengthens democratic institutions and contributes to a more transparent and responsive system of governance.
His remarks come at a time of renewed national discussion over the future of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, as public attention remains focused on the respective roles of the executive and parliament in determining the legislation’s fate.