Hon. Sam George Reiterates Stance on LGBTQ+ Issues, Questions Ghana’s Abstention on UN Vote

Accra, July 9, 2025 – Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Hon. Sam Nartey George, has reaffirmed his unwavering stance on LGBTQ+ matters, voicing strong concerns over Ghana’s decision to abstain from a key vote at the United Nations Human Rights Council on Draft Resolution L.24.

The resolution, which aims to accelerate efforts to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls through the fulfilment of economic, social, and cultural rights, was introduced at the 59th session of the Human Rights Council. Ghana made a detailed statement on the resolution before the vote, outlining its support for the resolution’s broad goals while reaffirming its cultural values and national sovereignty.

In a statement issued shortly after the vote, Hon. Sam George praised the delegation’s remarks but condemned the decision to abstain from the final vote.

“My position on the matter of LGBTQ+ remains steadfast. I have read the full statement Ghana made on the floor in relation to our position on draft resolution L.24. I align fully with the letter and spirit of the text,” he stated.

“I cannot, in good conscience, understand the decision to abstain in the subsequent vote. That vote is in conflict with Ghana’s espoused position and my conscience. We MUST at all times make our position clear and unambiguous.”

Hon. George, who has been a vocal figure in Ghana’s legislative efforts on issues related to sexual orientation and national values, also disclosed that he and other Members of Parliament have resubmitted the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill that was passed by Parliament last year but left unsigned by then-President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

“Like I indicated earlier, together with my Colleagues in Parliament, we have resubmitted the same Bill that was passed last year. I urge Parliament to expedite the approval process so we present the Bill to President John Dramani Mahama,” he said.

He concluded his remarks with a passionate call to uphold Ghana’s moral compass:

“The innocence of Ghanaian children and the sanctity of our values cannot be traded for any considerations. Let truth and our conscience and principles be our guiding light.”

Hon. Sam George’s comments highlight ongoing tensions between international human rights frameworks and Ghana’s domestic legislative priorities, especially around issues of sexuality, cultural identity, and national sovereignty.