Majority Chief Whip, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has assured Ghanaians that President John Dramani Mahama is fully prepared to assent to the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill once it is passed by Parliament and presented for his approval.
In an interview with Accra-based Joy FM, Mr Dafeamekpor emphasized that the President has no reservations about the legislation and is ready to give it immediate assent once the legislative process is complete.
“I am saying the person who will sign says, ‘My pen is ready. The ink is dripping.’ If you bring it today, I’ll sign it in the next minute,” he said, underscoring the President’s commitment to the bill.
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which has sparked extensive debate nationally and internationally, seeks to regulate matters relating to sexual orientation, gender identity, family values, and related advocacy activities in Ghana.
Supporters, including religious bodies, traditional authorities, and conservative civil society groups, argue that the bill is necessary to protect Ghana’s cultural values, moral foundations, and the traditional family structure.
However, the bill has also faced criticism from human rights organisations, legal experts, and parts of the international community, who contend that certain provisions may infringe on fundamental human rights guaranteed under Ghana’s Constitution and international conventions to which the country is a signatory.
Mr Dafeamekpor reiterated the ruling majority’s resolve to see the bill passed, affirming Parliament’s commitment to reflecting the will of Ghanaians.
“We want to assure the nation and all faith-based institutions and religious bodies that this bill, we will pass it. Just like a year ago, before we even kickstart that project, the President is ready to sign,” he said.
