Speaker Bagbin threatens to name and shame MPs obstructing anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has made it clear that he will publicly name anyone who tries to hinder the passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, also known as the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill. During the resumption of Parliament on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, Bagbin expressed his commitment to ensuring the House revisits the legislation and finishes the necessary steps for its approval.

He indicated that he would abide by the parliamentary rules to help bring forth a motion seeking to reverse the House's previous decision at the third-reading stage, allowing a second look at the bill. Bagbin asserted his determination to adhere to the applicable rules and procedures of the House to ensure that the House proceeds with the motion to reverse its earlier decision and undergo a second consideration of the bill to successfully complete its processing and secure its passage during the current sitting.

The Speaker gave a stern warning to any members who may attempt to disrupt the process, promising to openly disclose their names if they obstruct the bill's progression. Bagbin left the decision to the audience's discretion regarding whether to reveal the names of those who attempt to impede the bill's passage. The anti-LGBTQ+ Bill had previously been approved by the previous Parliament but was not forwarded to the President for approval due to identified errors in the legislation.

Bagbin has since stated that certain issues within the bill need to be resolved before the legislative process can be finalized. However, it's important to note that the Speaker cannot independently initiate the motion to revoke Parliament's earlier decision on the bill. For such a motion to be effective, it must be proposed by a Member of Parliament.

Majority Leader James Agalga has also confirmed that the bill will be discussed during the ongoing parliamentary session, expressing confidence that President John Dramani Mahama would approve the bill if it is passed by Parliament.