Majority Chief Whip, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has provided strong assurances that President John Dramani Mahama is entirely prepared to sign the contentious Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill once it is properly passed by Parliament and submitted to him for approval.
In an interview, Mr. Dafeamekpor expressed that the President has no hesitations regarding the signing of the bill, emphasizing that President Mahama is ready to give it immediate assent upon the completion of the legislative process.
The Majority Chief Whip stated that the President’s dedication to the bill is steadfast.
“I am stating that the individual who will sign says, ‘My pen is ready. The ink is dripping’. If you present it today, I will sign it in the next minute.”
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which has sparked significant national and international discussion, aims to regulate matters related to sexual orientation, gender identity, family values, and associated advocacy activities in Ghana.
Proponents of the bill, including various religious organizations, traditional leaders, and conservative civil society groups, argue that it is essential to safeguard Ghana’s cultural values, moral foundations, and the traditional family structure.
Conversely, the bill has faced substantial criticism from human rights organizations, legal experts, and segments of the international community, who argue that its provisions could violate fundamental human rights guaranteed under Ghana’s Constitution and international human rights treaties to which the country is a signatory.
Mr. Dafeamekpor reiterated the ruling majority’s determination to ensure the bill is passed, asserting that Parliament remains dedicated to reflecting the will of the Ghanaian populace.
“We want to reassure the nation and all faith-based institutions and religious organizations that this bill, we will pass it just like a year ago, before we even initiate that project, the president is prepared to sign.”
