Ghana parliament passes anti-LGBTQ bill, awaits president

Ghana's parliament passed an anti-LGBTQ bill that broadens criminal penalties for LGBTQ identity and activity and now awaits approval from President John Dramani Mahama. The measure, passed on Friday, keeps the threat of up to three years in prison for same-sex relations, then adds three to five years' imprisonment for anyone who funds, sponsors or promotes LGBTQ activity. The bill also requires reporting prohibited acts to police. Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor said the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values 2025 bill passed by vote. Bill sponsor Reverend John Ntim Fordjour said the measure is meant to protect Ghana's family and cultural values. Human Rights Watch condemned the policy, saying it puts LGBTQ people at risk. A similar version passed in 2024, but President Nana Akufo-Addo did not sign it.