Wednesday, 28 January

LGBTQ Bill submitted but not yet laid before Parliament – MP clarifies

General News
Mr Emmanuel Bedzra

Mr  Emmanuel Bedzra, Member of Parliament for Ho West Constituency in the Volta Region, has clarified that the controversial LGBTQ-related bill has not yet been formally laid before Parliament, despite being submitted and accepted through proper parliamentary procedures.

He spoke during an interview on Class 91.5 FM's Morning Show hosted by Kwame Dwumour Agyemang.

According to  Bedzra, the bill—introduced as a Private Members’ Bill—has been signed by its promoters and formally presented to Parliament.

However, he emphasised that “presentation” does not equate to debate or adoption; it simply means the bill has been received and processed administratively.

He explained that the bill is now with the Speaker of Parliament, who must formally lay it before the House for it to advance to stages such as debate or committee review.

Until that step is taken, the legislation cannot proceed.

The MP noted that public perceptions suggesting the bill has already passed parliamentary hurdles are incorrect.

He described the process as a “tough battle,” with strong interests both inside and outside Parliament influencing the pace and direction of the bill.

Hon. Bedzra urged the public to stay informed about the legislative process, stressing that the bill’s current status rests solely on the Speaker’s decision to allow it to be formally introduced in the House.

The lawmaker reiterated that the parliamentary engagement with the bill is ongoing and procedural steps must be followed before any substantive discussion occurs.

Source: Classfmonline.com/Nanevi Celestine Emefa