Anti-LGBTQ Bill Remains Intact Despite Amendments - Samuel Nartey George

Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George has rejected claims that recent amendments to the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025 have weakened its purpose, insisting that the legislation remains firmly committed to its original objectives.

Under the amended bill, journalists and media organisations reporting on LGBTQ-related matters in the course of their professional duties are exempt from sanctions. Medical practitioners providing surgical, psychological, counselling, and other healthcare services to LGBTQ individuals are also protected from penalties.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue on May 30, Mr George argued that suggestions that the legislation had been diluted were misleading. He maintained that the government remains committed to enforcing the law once it receives the necessary legal approval.

The minister further dismissed criticism from some members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), including John Ntim Fordjour, describing such concerns as politically motivated and based on a misunderstanding of the amendments.

According to him, the passage of the bill demonstrates the government's commitment to what it considers the protection of Ghanaian values and children, adding that political considerations did not influence the decision to support the legislation.

Mr George stressed that the amendments do not alter the bill's central aim of prohibiting LGBTQ-related activities and insisted that its enforcement will remain consistent with Parliament's original intent.

Parliament recently passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025 with amendments that provide exemptions for lawyers, journalists and healthcare professionals carrying out their official responsibilities.