In a stirring address to the Ghanaian community in Côte d’Ivoire on January 26, 2025, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin announced his plans to seek legal counsel regarding the contentious Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill. Apexnewsgh reports
This significant legislation, which had previously passed Parliament, was left unsigned by former President Akufo-Addo, an act Bagbin decries as unconstitutional.
Bagbin passionately articulated his stance, asserting, “The LGBTQ bill was passed by Parliament, the former president refused to assent to it, which was unconstitutional. There is no law allowing the president to refuse or fail to assent to a bill passed by Parliament.” His comments emphasized the authority of Parliament in lawmaking, a principle he firmly believes was undermined by the former president’s refusal to approve the bill.
Addressing the audience, Bagbin reflected on the repercussions of the prior administration’s decision, suggesting that the community had collectively registered their discontent with the former president’s stance. “That decision was wrong, and all of you punished him for that,” he noted, reinforcing his belief that parliamentary procedure must be respected.
Looking to the future, Bagbin expressed determination to see the bill passed this year. “I am going to write to the new Attorney General and Minister for Justice for his comments so we can resend it to the new president for his assent. It will not take time; it will be passed this year.” He reiterated the bill’s significance, describing it as “anti-God” and emphasizing his unwavering commitment to the cause. “Nobody should joke with me when it comes to that area. I can lose my life because of that,” he asserted, underscoring the deeply personal nature of his convictions.
With this announcement, Bagbin has signaled a renewed effort to push forward legislation that has been a topic of heated debate in Ghana, ensuring that the controversy surrounding the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill remains at the forefront of political discourse.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com