Speaker Bagbin explains call for reconsideration of Anti-LGBTQ+ bill
via GhanaWeb2 min read
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has clarified his decision to seek a reconsideration of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, also known as the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill. He stated that he was surprised by the bill's passage, as he had anticipated only the consideration stage would be completed before Parliament adjourned. Bagbin made these remarks on Thursday, June 11, 2026, during a courtesy call by the Supreme Court’s 150th Anniversary Planning Committee. He emphasized that Parliament retains the authority to revisit legislation before it is sent to the President for assent, countering arguments that Parliament becomes "functus officio" once a bill is passed. Bagbin noted that the passage process allows Parliament to reflect on its decisions and correct inconsistencies or errors. He also indicated that the emotionally charged public discussions surrounding the bill necessitate broader engagement and careful reflection before any final steps are taken. The Speaker had previously instructed the Majority and Minority leadership to conduct further consultations to build consensus among lawmakers and stakeholders.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by GhanaWeb.
Andy Appiah-Kubi, the lawyer representing Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, has filed a motion to withdraw from the ongoing illegal mining case. Appiah-Kubi confirmed on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme on Thursday, June 11, 2026, that he has formally submitted an application to discontinue his legal representation, with his reasons detailed in an affidavit filed with the court. He stated that his decision is not based on the expected outcome of the case and that he will reserve further comments until judgment is delivered. Appiah-Kubi mentioned that he is not comfortable with how the case has been handled, finding it to be moving too fast, and intends to petition the Bar Association. The trial involving Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining Limited over alleged illegal mining activities in Samreboi has concluded, with the Accra High Court scheduled to deliver its final judgment on July 3, 2026. The accused faces multiple charges, including facilitating unlicensed mining operations and transferring mineral rights without ministerial approval. Chairman Wontumi remains on bail under conditions including a GH¢15 million bail bond, surrender of his passport, and a travel restriction.
Must ReadA group identified as the Ghana First Alliance demonstrated at the MTN Ghana head office in Accra on June 11, 2026. The protest, dubbed "South Africa Must Go," targeted South African-owned businesses in Ghana, including MTN Ghana, DStv, and Gold Fields' Tarkwa mining operations. Demonstrators called for investigations into fees and operations, the closure of some businesses, and the non-renewal of certain leases. Protesters chanted slogans in Twi, expressing anger and frustration over the treatment of African migrants in South Africa. This demonstration follows Ghana's repatriation of nearly 1,000 citizens from South Africa due to concerns about anti-immigrant operations and reports of xenophobic attacks. As of the report's filing, neither MTN Ghana nor the other targeted companies had publicly responded to the protest.
Must ReadAndy Appiah-Kubi, lawyer for Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, has clarified the charges against his client in the EXIM Bank fraud case. He confirmed that an application for plea bargaining has been filed with the Attorney General. The charges before the Accra High Court are defrauding by false witnesses, contrary to Section 131, and altering a false document, contrary to Section 169. The lawyer stated that the legal team has formally applied for plea bargaining, a legal option available to accused persons. He emphasized that the proposal has been submitted to the Attorney General, who is expected to arrange a meeting with all parties to discuss the application's details. The lawyer noted that he is not at liberty to discuss the terms of the plea bargain, as it is for the Attorney General to review and conclude the meetings. He also corrected a misconception, stating that the charges do not involve obtaining a loan from a United States court, but rather relate to the late submission of two documents.