I Didn’t Expect It to Pass! — Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin Breaks Silence On LGBTQ Bill Approval
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has revealed he was taken aback by the sudden passage of the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, disclosing that he had expected only the consideration stage to begin before lawmakers adjourned.
Speaking candidly, the Speaker said the speed at which the bill was passed caught him off guard, especially as Parliament had been preparing for further deliberations rather than final approval.
“In fact, when it was passed on Friday, it was even a surprise to me,” he admitted, explaining that he had left instructions for proceedings to focus on consideration, not conclusion.
Mr Bagbin emphasised that the legislation had undergone extensive scrutiny, drawing from a wide range of legal frameworks, including international human rights instruments such as the United Nations Charter and African human rights protocols. He noted that development partners, including the United Nations, had also contributed memoranda and proposals during the process.
Despite these engagements, he stressed that Parliament ultimately grounded its decision in Ghanaian values, culture, and customs — a factor he described as central to shaping the final outcome.
However, the speaker made it clear that passage of the bill is only one step in a much broader process.
“This is such a critical bill that we believe there must be consensus. It’s not about passing the bill — it’s about implementing it and making sure that it benefits the people,” he said.
In response to the unexpected turn of events, Mr Bagbin has summoned leaders from both sides of the House for an urgent meeting to review the situation and determine the way forward.
He expressed confidence that through dialogue and cooperation, Parliament would be able to build national consensus around the legislation and ensure broad public acceptance.
“I am very sure that being men and women of wisdom, we will find a way out and get all Ghanaians to buy into it,” he stated.
While acknowledging public commendation for Parliament’s work so far, the Speaker assured that any further discussions would aim to strengthen not weaken the bill.
“We want to better what has already been passed. It won’t take any shine off it,” he added.
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