Ghana's LGBTQ+ Bill Delay Could Influence 2028 Election, Says APL Survey

A recent Africa Policy Lens (APL) survey reveals that over 80% of Ghanaian voters are influenced by the government's delay in signing the proposed anti-LGBTQ+ bill, a development that could significantly impact the 2028 elections, according to MyJoyOnline. The bill remains unsigned amid vigorous public debate, with urban centers like Greater Accra and Ashanti demonstrating particularly high levels of engagement on the issue.

The APL poll, which included nearly 7,000 SMS responses over three days, found that 85% of respondents are dissatisfied with the government's handling of LGBTQ+ matters, signaling broad national concern and potential voter backlash. This dissatisfaction may shape political discourse as parties prepare for the upcoming elections, with some voters considering the LGBTQ+ bill a key factor in their decisions.

Ghanaian MPs have sharply criticized the government's approach to the legislation. Hassan Tampuli, Vice Chairman of Parliament’s Constitutional and Legal Committee, accused President John Dramani Mahama of insincerity for delaying the bill's passage despite the ruling party’s two-thirds parliamentary majority, highlighting that the bill had been reintroduced as a private members' bill after initial public bill plans. Tampuli has called for an immediate vote on the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, describing the government's stance as arrogant.

Former Deputy Transport Minister Titus Glover also rebuked the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for allegedly reversing its position on the bill after winning power, attributing the shift to legal and political pressures. He emphasized that the law remains a central campaign issue and moral priority, and criticized reduced activism among religious leaders who were previously vocal proponents.

Political observers will be watching closely as the government balances pressure from religious and conservative groups with criticism from human rights advocates and a restless public. The handling and ultimate passage of the LGBTQ+ bill are expected to influence voter behavior and party strategies in the lead-up to Ghana’s 2028 elections.