Accra: The Member of Parliament for Assin South, John Ntim Fordjour, is urging President John Dramani Mahama to follow through on his earlier stance and ensure the passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Speaking at a press conference in Accra, the lawmaker, who has been a strong supporter of the bill, accused the President of shifting his position on the matter since assuming office. He argued that the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) had taken a firmer stance while in opposition but appears to have softened its approach in government.
According to Ghana Web, Ntim Fordjour criticized the NDC for portraying the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government as indecisive, only to change their own position upon gaining power. "NDC portrayed the NPP government as indecisive. but the moment they assumed power, they replaced their strong stance in opposition with rhetoric. They moved from 'pass the bill' to 'manage how it is introduced and structured,'" Fordjour remarked.
He further expressed frustration over President Mahama's approach to LGBTQ+ issues, saying, "The urgency has already evaporated, and his certainty dissolves into procedural language when he goes to America, but tells Ghanaians at home he is against LGBTQ+."
Henry Nana Boakye, the National Organiser of the NPP, echoed these sentiments at the press conference, accusing the NDC of using LGBTQI issues as a political tool during the 2024 general elections. He claimed the party involved religious leaders to sway voter sentiment at that time. "NDC negatively weaponised the issue of LGBTQ+ in the run-up to the 2024 elections; they roped in the clergy. in government today, we are seeing something different from what they promised," Nana Boakye stated.
These comments arise amidst ongoing national discussions on LGBTQI issues, sparking varied reactions across the country. President Mahama previously called for restraint and calm in handling the debate, emphasizing the need for dialogue and mutual respect. During a Presidential Dialogue with Civil Society Organisations at Jubilee House, he described the issue as sensitive and requiring careful consideration.
'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,' the President noted, highlighting his administration's focus on addressing pressing socio-economic challenges.
President Mahama also pointed out that the discussions around the private member's bill in Parliament reflect the diversity of views within Ghanaian society. He emphasized that any decision must align with the Constitution and uphold human rights. "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," he concluded.