Sam George reaffirms stance on LGBTQ+, demands swift parliamentary action

Accra, Ghana —
Firebrand Ningo-Prampram MP, Hon. Sam Nartey George, has reaffirmed his unyielding opposition to LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana and called on Parliament to expedite the passage of the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill.

Speaking in an interview and through recent social media commentary, Sam George criticized what he described as a deliberate delay in enacting the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, arguing that the time for parliamentary indecision has long passed.

“This bill has gone through the necessary stages, and the Ghanaian people have spoken. Parliament must reflect the will of the people and act now,” he declared.

The Bill and Its Provisions

The anti-LGBTQ+ bill—co-sponsored by Sam George and seven other MPs—seeks to criminalize the promotion, funding, and practice of LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana. It proposes strict penalties for individuals and organizations engaged in advocacy or activities related to what the bill terms “unnatural carnal knowledge.”

Though it has received widespread support from traditional leaders, religious groups, and sections of the public, the bill has also attracted international criticism, with many rights organizations labeling it as a threat to freedom of expression and human rights.

“We’re not here to legislate hate,” George argued. “We’re here to protect our cultural identity and moral fabric.”

Delays Spark Concern

Despite passing through the committee and public hearing stages, the bill has been stalled in Parliament, with lawmakers citing the need for further review, constitutional scrutiny, and clarity on its legal implications.

Sam George believes these delays are politically motivated and warned against what he called “external influences trying to compromise Ghana’s sovereignty.”

“We respect international relations, but Ghana will not be bullied into abandoning its values,” he said.

Public and Political Reaction

The lawmaker’s call has reignited public debate. Supporters see the bill as a necessary safeguard of Ghanaian traditions, while critics say it risks inciting violence and undermining minority rights.

Civil society groups and human rights defenders are continuing to lobby against the bill, calling on Parliament to uphold Ghana’s commitment to international human rights treaties.

The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, has in the past signaled support for the bill, but no firm date has been set for its final debate and vote.

As tensions rise around the bill’s future, Sam George remains a central figure in one of Ghana’s most divisive legal and moral conversations. Whether Parliament will act swiftly—as he demands—remains to be seen.