Rev. John Ntim Fordjour Criticizes President Mahama Over Shift on Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

In a recent political development, Assin South Member of Parliament, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has expressed strong disapproval of President John Dramani Mahama’s revised stance on the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill. The lawmaker accused the President of inconsistency in handling the proposed legislation, which has been a topic of intense debate in Ghana.

Rev. John Ntim Fordjour calls out President Mahama for changing his
stance on the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

On January 14, 2025, President Mahama, during a meeting with the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, proposed that the anti-LGBTQ+ bill be reintroduced as a government-sponsored initiative rather than a private members’ bill. He justified this approach by arguing that it would better align with Ghanaian cultural values and enhance the integration of moral teachings within the educational system.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Face to Face program on March 18, Rev. Fordjour expressed disappointment, stating that Mahama’s change of heart contradicts his previous stance. He emphasized that when in opposition, Mahama supported the private members’ bill, and he should remain consistent in his principles now that he is in power.

“Has the government introduced any bill? Let them bring it. Until they do, this is what we have,” Fordjour asserted.

He further argued that Mahama’s newfound perspective on raising children with a value-based curriculum contradicts his earlier position. According to him, this shift undermines the credibility of the President’s commitments.

Rev. Fordjour urged President Mahama to endorse the current bill, emphasizing that delaying its passage could negatively impact Ghana’s legislative integrity and commitment to upholding cultural norms.

“When you were in opposition, you didn’t reject this approach. If you endorsed it [Private Members’ Bill] then, you have to be consistent with your principles. We’re expecting that within six to eight months, it should be passed. We will present it to President Mahama and hope that he will be more than willing to assent.”

The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, aimed at criminalizing LGBTQ+ activities and their promotion, was passed by the 8th Parliament but did not receive presidential assent under President Akufo-Addo. Now, with its reintroduction in Parliament, proponents like Rev. Fordjour are pushing for swift governmental action under Mahama’s leadership.

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