President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated that issues relating to LGBTQ+ rights are not among the most pressing challenges confronting Ghana, calling for restraint and respect as national debate on the matter continues.
Speaking at a Presidential Dialogue with Civil Society Organisations at Jubilee House in Accra on Monday, March 30, the President stressed that the country must prioritise addressing critical socio-economic concerns affecting citizens’ daily lives.
He noted that during a recent engagement with the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, where he was honoured with the International Statesperson Award, he made it clear that Ghana’s immediate focus remains on essential needs such as education, healthcare, employment, food security, and housing.
“I explained during my recent engagement with the World Affairs Council that it is not the most important issue we face as a nation. We are still grappling with the provision of basic needs of education, health care, jobs, food, clothing, and shelter,” he said.
President Mahama described the LGBTQ+ discourse as highly sensitive and emotionally charged, even in societies with established liberal traditions. He emphasised that his administration remains committed to improving living standards and addressing structural economic challenges.
Touching on the legislative process, he clarified that the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill currently before Parliament is a private member’s bill rather than a government-sponsored initiative. According to him, its consideration forms part of a broader national conversation grounded in constitutional principles, human rights, and the need to maintain social cohesion.
“While there are strong and differing views within our society, we believe that issues must be addressed through democratic processes, our core values, dialogue, and the rule of law,” the President stated.
He also acknowledged growing international attention surrounding Ghana’s handling of the issue, including the decision by Lincoln University to withdraw a planned honorary doctorate ahead of his recent visit to the United States. The university cited concerns within its community regarding his perceived stance on the legislation.
President Mahama said such reactions highlight the importance of sustained engagement and mutual respect between Ghana and its international partners.
“These developments underscore the importance of continued engagement and mutual respect, and of situating our national decisions within our constitutional and cultural context. Ghana will continue to uphold its democratic values while engaging constructively with the international community,” he added.
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill was reintroduced in Parliament on February 17, 2026, and has since been referred to the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee for consideration. The President has previously indicated that he would assent to the bill if it is passed by Parliament, although he has expressed a preference for it to have been introduced as a government-sponsored measure.