Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has justified the prolonged delay in passing the Property Rights of Spouses Bill, stating that the proposed legislation touches on sensitive cultural, religious and social issues that require careful national consensus rather than rushed decision-making.

Addressing lawmakers when Parliament resumed sitting on Thursday, May 21, Mr. Bagbin stressed that Parliament remains committed to passing the bill but cautioned against holding the legislature solely responsible for the delay.

The Property Rights of Spouses Bill has been before several parliaments over the years amid increasing calls from women’s rights advocates and legal groups for legislation to regulate the fair distribution of property acquired during marriage.

Mr. Bagbin acknowledged concerns over the absence of a comprehensive legal framework governing spousal property rights but explained that lawmakers have had to approach the matter cautiously due to the complexity of Ghana’s marriage systems and religious diversity.

According to him, differing positions held by various religious and cultural groups have made consensus-building particularly challenging.

The Speaker further noted that Ghana’s multiple marriage systems, including customary, Christian and Mohammedan marriages, continue to complicate discussions surrounding the proposed legislation.

Despite the setbacks, Mr. Bagbin assured the public that Parliament remains determined to see the bill passed.