The Constitutional, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee of Parliament is set to commence public hearings on the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill beginning tomorrow.

The hearings are expected to provide a platform for stakeholders, including Civil Society Organisations, legal experts, religious bodies, and members of the public, to present their views on the proposed legislation.

The bill, which has generated intense national debate, seeks to address issues related to LGBTQ+ activities and advocacy in Ghana, but has also attracted criticism from human rights groups and sections of the international community.

Parliamentary officials say the public engagement process is aimed at ensuring transparency and inclusivity in the legislative process, allowing diverse perspectives to be considered before any final decision is taken.

The outcome of the hearings is expected to inform the Committee’s recommendations to Parliament as discussions continue on the future of the bill.

The bill prescribes a three-year jail term for people who identify as gay, and five to 10 years for promoters and advocates.

The legislation was passed by parliament last Two years, but the former President, Nana Akufo-Addo, declined to sign it into law before leaving office in January, citing legal challenges.

It has been widely condemned by both local and international human rights groups, with some describing it as draconian.