"I’ll bring back Anti-LGBTQ Bill" – Sam Nartey George
The Minister nominee for Communications, Digitalisation, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George has pledged to continue his advocacy for the Anti-LGBTQ Bill in the 9th Parliament.
He reiterated his firm opposition to LGBTQ+ activities, emphasizing that the bill is vital for preserving Ghanaian cultural values and societal norms.
During his vetting by the Appointments Committee on Thursday, January 30, 2025, Sam George reaffirmed that the bill's reintroduction reflects the will of the Ghanaian people.
“This is a matter of principle and national interest. The Anti-Gay Bill is not about discrimination, but about protecting our moral and cultural values as a nation,” he stated.
He further argued that while Ghana is committed to human rights, some practices conflict with the country’s traditions and beliefs.
"My position is that that bill is a critical part of our national life. Ghanaian family values, our children's innocence must be protected. In this 9th Parliament, that bill will be reintroduced, either as a private member's bill or as a government's bill. I will work with government. If it's government's bill, if it's not and it's my bill, I will bring it back again," he said.
"Because my chiefs sitting here, the chiefs from Nyingwa and Prampram, supported me in bringing that bill in the 8th Parliament. If asked me to reintroduce it in the 9th Parliament, I will do so," he added.
Mr. George also brushed aside concerns from international bodies about the bill, asserting that Ghana has the sovereign right to shape its own laws without external interference.
He committed to working closely with Parliament and relevant stakeholders to ensure the bill’s passage, emphasizing his dedication to protecting Ghanaian societal values.
As the lead campaigner among a group of Members of Parliament advocating for the anti-gay bill, Mr. George noted that the bill did not pass into law after former President Akufo-Addo refused to assent to it, despite its approval by Parliament.