NACOC urges Mahama, parliament to clarify status of anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

The National Association of Concerned Clergy (NACOC) has called on Parliament and President John Dramani Mahama to clarify the status of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill and outline the next steps in its consideration.

In a statement, the association urged Parliament to revisit the legislation and the Executive to clearly communicate its position, citing growing public uncertainty over the controversial bill.

“We believe that an issue of such national importance should not be left in prolonged uncertainty. Ghanaian citizens, religious leaders, traditional authorities, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders deserve transparency, accountability, and meaningful engagement from their elected representatives,” the statement said.

NACOC also called on Parliament to address outstanding legislative and procedural concerns and determine the appropriate next steps in accordance with the Constitution.

It urged President Mahama and the Executive to explain the legal considerations and constitutional options available to them.

“Leadership requires not only making decisions but also explaining those decisions to the people,” the association said.

The call follows Parliament’s passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, on May 29, 2026.

Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin subsequently called for the bill to be revisited over concerns about compliance with parliamentary procedures. Parliament adjourned on July 31 without reconsidering it.

NACOC said the public should not be left in prolonged uncertainty over an issue that has generated significant national debate.

“We cannot afford indefinite uncertainty on an issue that has generated significant national debate. We therefore urge Parliament and the Executive to act with clarity, constitutional responsibility, and respect for the people of Ghana,” the statement said.

The association said it supported a transparent and lawful process that allows religious communities and other stakeholders to express their concerns peacefully, without threats, violence or the dehumanisation of any person.