President John Dramani Mahama has called on international partners to respect Ghana’s position on LGBTQ issues, stressing that the country’s public policy framework is firmly grounded in its legal traditions, cultural values, and broad national consensus.

Speaking during an engagement abroad, President Mahama underscored that Ghana’s approach to LGBTQ matters is neither arbitrary nor externally driven, but anchored in the 1992 Constitution and reflective of the collective views of its citizens.

“Public policy is grounded in legal traditions, cultural context and consensus,” he stated, emphasising that decisions on such sensitive issues must align with the country’s democratic principles and societal norms.

The president clarified that the controversial anti-LGBTQ bill currently before Parliament is a private member’s bill, and not sponsored or initiated by the government. He explained that this distinction is critical, as it underscores the independence of the legislative arm of government and the role of elected representatives in shaping national laws.

President Mahama noted that Ghana’s democratic institutions—including Parliament and the judiciary—remain actively engaged in the process, ensuring that deliberations are conducted transparently and in accordance with the rule of law.

He further stressed that the ongoing discussions demonstrate the strength of Ghana’s democracy, where diverse views are considered within established legal frameworks to arrive at decisions that reflect the will of the people.

Reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to democratic governance, President Mahama assured the international community that the country will continue to adhere to due process as it navigates the complex issue.

“Ghana remains committed to due process and to ensuring that any outcome reflects the sovereign will of its people,” he added.

The president’s remarks come amid heightened global interest in Ghana’s legislative process on LGBTQ matters, with calls from some international actors for the country to reconsider aspects of the proposed bill.