A senior political scientist has criticized former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for failing to sign the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill—commonly referred to as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill—before leaving office, calling it a major political misstep.
Dr. Joshua Zaato, a lecturer at the University of Ghana, made the remarks during an interview on JoyNews’ AM Show on October 23, 2025. He argued that Akufo-Addo’s refusal to assent to the bill, which had already been passed by Parliament, contributed significantly to the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) defeat in the 2024 general elections.
“Akufo-Addo was wrong,” Dr. Zaato stated. “By not signing this bill into law, he alienated a large portion of the electorate who felt strongly about the issue. This decision played a role in the massive loss the NPP suffered at the polls.”
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill seeks to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities and advocacy in Ghana. It has been one of the most polarizing legislative proposals in recent years, drawing both domestic support and international criticism.
Dr. Zaato emphasized that once Parliament had passed the bill, the President had only two constitutional options: to sign it into law or return it to Parliament with specific concerns. He argued that Akufo-Addo did neither, effectively stalling the bill’s progress and undermining the legislative process.
In contrast, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, MP for Assin South and a sponsor of the bill, defended the former President, stating that legal challenges—not presidential inaction—prevented the bill from reaching Akufo-Addo’s desk. “When the hands of Parliament were stayed and enjoined from transmitting the bill, the President could not even have the privilege of receiving it to take a decision upon,” Fordjour explained.
The debate over the bill continues to stir strong emotions across Ghana, with civil society groups, religious leaders, and international organizations weighing in on both sides. As the new administration considers its stance, the political fallout from the previous government’s handling of the bill remains a topic of national conversation.