The earlier version of the bill was unanimously approved in February 2024, but it never became law due to legal challenges and the end of the presidency of Mahama’s predecessor, Nana Akufo-Addo. A group of MPs has now reintroduced the proposal.

If passed without changes, the penalties would increase significantly. Identifying as LGBTQ+ could lead to a maximum prison sentence of three years. Promoting LGBTQ+ activities or funding organisations could result in up to ten years in prison. Participation in gender-affirming care, same-sex marriage, or attending a same-sex wedding would also be punishable. Ghana already has laws dating back to the colonial era that criminalise homosexual acts, but this new law would expand criminal liability considerably.

Mahama confirmed his support during a meeting with the Christian Council of Ghana. He emphasised that his government upholds traditional family values and that it is Parliament’s role to decide, but that he will sign the bill once it has been approved.

Human rights organisations have warned that the law would lead to serious discrimination and safety risks. According to an estimate based on a 2011 survey, if passed without amendment the law could result in the imprisonment of more than 350,000 Ghanaians. Other parts of civil society, including the national Human Rights Commission and religious leaders such as Cardinal Peter Turkson, have expressed concern about criminalising people for their identity rather than their actions.

It remains unclear when Parliament will revisit the bill. Some MPs have recently reported confusion over the procedure, but a new reading is expected in the near future.