The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has called on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to promptly assent to the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, commonly known as the Anti-Gay Bill.

During its Annual Plenary Assembly, held from November 8 to 16, 2024, at the Pope John Paul II Formation and Training Centre in Ofoase Kokoben, Diocese of Obuasi, Ashanti Region, the Bishops criticised the President for delaying his decision on the bill.

The bill, which was passed by Parliament on February 28, 2024, aims to criminalize same-sex relations and promote traditional family values.

However, its implementation is uncertain, as it awaits the President’s assent.

The bill’s progress has been stalled due to two Supreme Court cases challenging its constitutionality.

A Supreme Court ruling on July 17, 2024, delayed any further judgments on the anti-gay cases until all related legal challenges are resolved.

The bishops dismissed the reasons given for the delay as “mere excuses” and urged swift action.

The bishops reaffirmed their support for the bill, emphasising that it aligns with their commitment to the sanctity of the family and the protection of traditional values rooted in both cultural and Christian heritage.

“We urge the President to give his assent to this Bill, which we believe aligns with the moral convictions of almost all Ghanaians. We see no justification for the President’s delayed action on the matter. In fact, we consider the reasons proffered for the delay as mere excuses.”

“This is not a call for discrimination but for the preservation of our moral fabric and the protection of the traditional marriage and family as the foundation of our society.”

“The Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill has ignited passionate discussions across the country.”

“As shepherds of the Church, we support the bill as it reflects our commitment to the sanctity of the family and the upholding of traditional values rooted in our cultural and Christian heritage.”