Anti-LGBTQ bill remains firm despite amendments — Sam George
Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George has dismissed claims by the Minority that amendments to the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, commonly known as the Anti-LGBTQ bill, have weakened its intended impact, insisting the legislation remains firm on its core objectives.
Under the revised framework, journalists and media organisations reporting on LGBTQ-related issues or current affairs in the course of their duties are not subject to sanctions.
Medical professionals, including those offering surgical, psychological, and counselling services to LGBTQ persons, are also exempt from penalties under the law.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue on Saturday, May 30, he argued that suggestions that the bill had been diluted were inaccurate, stressing that the government remains fully committed to enforcing its provisions once it becomes law.
He maintained that criticisms from some members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), including former Education Minister Ntim Fordjour, were politically motivated and based on a misunderstanding of the government’s position.
According to him, the passage of the bill reflects a clear stance by the governing side, which he said had resisted attempts to politicise the legislation.
“We have shown that our commitment goes beyond politics and goes to the protection of our children, and we will not compromise on our stance,” he stated.
Samuel Nartey George further stressed that the law maintains its core intent of criminalising LGBTQ-related activities, adding that individuals within that category are expected to desist or face the consequences of the law.
He added that the amendments do not change the substance of the legislation and insisted that enforcement will reflect the original intent of Parliament.
Meanwhile, Parliament has passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, which introduces penalties for LGBTQ activities while also outlining specific exemptions for professionals such as lawyers, journalists and medical practitioners operating within their official duties.
