Ghana’s Parliament Adjourns: Anti-LGBTQ Bill Stalled as Minority Criticizes Mahama Administration’s Oversight and Economic Performance

On July 31, 2026, the Parliament of Ghana adjourned sine die, concluding the second meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament. While the session saw the successful passage of 12 significant pieces of legislation, it was marked by the notable omission of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2026, commonly known as the Anti-LGBTQ bill. Despite earlier signals from Speaker Alban Bagbin that the House might revisit the bill to address specific sentencing provisions, the motion failed to be adopted before the recess, leaving the controversial legislation in a state of flux as the House rose for the break.

Aminst the adjournment, the House successfully passed a suite of laws aimed at economic reform and governance. Key among these was the Ghana Cocoa Board Bill, which guarantees cocoa farmers a 70% share of the Free on Board (FOB) export prices, and the Excise Bill, which abolishes taxes on locally produced fruit juices. Other passed legislations include the Customs Bill, the Tribunals Bill, the National Defence University Ghana Bill, and the Community Service Bill—the latter introducing alternative sentencing options to decongest the nation’s prisons. The session also featured intense debates over the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review presented by the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

The closing of the session was punctuated by a scathing address from Minority Leader Osahen Alexander Kwame Afenyo-Markin. The NPP leader characterized the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration, led by President John Mahama, as suffering from "executive incompetence" and "majority tyranny." Afenyo-Markin specifically demanded accountability for recent national tragedies, including a military helicopter crash and devastating floods that resulted in 34 deaths, noting that no official has yet taken responsibility for these events. He further criticized the government’s economic management, citing discrepancies in the 2026 Budget and expressing concern over perceived judicial bias and potential threats to free speech.

Despite the political friction, the session's end also showcased moments of levity and digital engagement. Members of the Minority Caucus gained significant social media attention through a viral video challenge playfully teasing Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, highlighting a rare moment of camaraderie amidst the legislative gridlock. As Parliament enters recess, the nation remains focused on the implementation of the newly passed economic laws and the eventual fate of the Anti-LGBTQ bill. The Minority Leader has pledged that the opposition will continue its rigorous oversight to safeguard Ghana’s democratic integrity during the parliamentary break.