The much discussed Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill may finally pass during Ghana’s Easter season, according to Samuel Nartey George, the bill’s main supporter and member of parliament for Ningo-Prampram.

In an interview with Citi FM, situated in Accra, George disclosed that the bill is almost finished being considered. It is currently being amended based on feedback from different stakeholders.

“They have completed around 60% of the consideration phase. Hopefully, the deliberation process will be finished after two more weeks of parliamentary work upon return. The law is read and then passed on the third reading, which is simply a procedural procedure, according to George.

George, the main proponent of the proposed legislation, said, “We think we should approve the measure before Easter at the first session of the upcoming meeting, which is scheduled to run from the 6th of February until the end of March or early April.

It is something that Parliament ought to offer the country as an Easter present, in my opinion. Thus, we would make an effort to collaborate with the committee chair and speaker.”

The bill aims to criminalise the promotion or advocacy of LGBTQ+ activities, outlaw LGBTQ+ and related activities, and establish safeguards and aid protocols for children and others impacted by or accused of participating in LGBTQ+ and related activities.

As one of the proposed penalties, the measure would subject same-sex relationships—including oral and anal interactions—to imprisonment with terms varying from five to ten years.

Proponents of the legislation argue that it protects traditional values, while opponents claim that it violates human rights. The contentious legislation has created a heated discussion in Ghana.

The country is watching the outcome of the bill’s legislative processes with great interest and continuous conversation.