Ghana’s Parliament officially resumes sitting today, kicking off the Third Meeting of the First Session of the 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic. Lawmakers are immediately faced with a packed agenda that includes crucial national financial planning and the consideration of significant social legislation.
Central to the expected business is the presentation and potential approval of the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy, alongside the review of various important bills and committee reports, all aimed at scrutinizing fiscal plans and ensuring government oversight.
A highly significant development for this session is the reintroduction of the divisive Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025. This controversial measure, which has previously garnered substantial domestic and international attention, is being brought before the House again by a coalition of twelve Members of Parliament.
Key proponents driving this renewed effort include Sam George (MP for Ningo-Prampram) and John Ntim Fordjour (MP for Assin South), with a confirmed ten lawmakers officially listed as sponsors for its presentation and first reading.
This legislative focus on social values runs parallel to the introduction of the Property Rights of Spouses Bill, 2025, which addresses domestic economic law. This bill is being championed by a separate group of legislators, notably featuring the Deputy Minority Leader, Patricia Appiagyei, and Trades Minister, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare. Both the LGBTQ+ rights bill and the Spousal Property Bill are confirmed to be positioned for their initial reading during this meeting, setting the stage for a session marked by debates on both fundamental social issues and the economic structure of marriage.
The full list of ten sponsors for the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill includes Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzra, Helen Adjoa Ntoso, Nurideen Muhammed Mummuni, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, Alhassan Tampuli Sulemana, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, Tiah Abdul Kabiru Mahama, and Anthony Mmieh.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
