Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam George says the court does not have the power to prevent Parliament from passing the Anti-LGBTQ bill.
The vocal proponent of the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill says the judiciary should not overstep its boundaries by attempting to dictate the legislative process.
Speaking on JoyNews' AM Show, Mr George questioned the court's willingness to entertain two recent cases brought before it against the bill's passage.
"I'm wondering why the courts are going ahead to even entertain any case at this point in time because the courts must bear in mind that no court can issue a judgment or give directive to the President that you can’t discuss this matter in Cabinet."
He highlighted that while the courts play a crucial role in ensuring due process and keeping the legislation in check, they cannot assume to have the power to impede on Parliament's right to pass laws.
"It is the prerogative of Parliament to pass legislation, and so no court should think that they have the power to tell Parliament that you can pass this bill or you cannot pass this," Mr George stressed.
Citing a previous case involving the Marijuana legislation, Sam George underscored that the courts have the ability to review the legislative process after Parliament has passed a law.
He said in such cases, they can assess whether all necessary procedures were followed and potentially nullify the law if due process was not observed. However, he firmly stated that this should not interfere with Parliament's right to sit and pass laws.
"You can pass a judgment, saying that Parliament did not go through all the processes and nullify the law. But you can't tell Parliament that you cannot sit and pass a law," added Mr. George.
The proposed LGBT Bill has been a subject of intense debate in Ghana, sparking discussions both domestically and internationally.
The bill seeks to criminalise activities related to homosexuality and increase penalties for those involved.
While it has generated support from certain segments of society who believe it aligns with Ghana's cultural and religious values, it has also drawn criticism from human rights organizations and advocates who argue that it infringes upon the rights and dignity of the LGBTQ+ community.
Latest Stories
-
The JOY Prime Made in Ghana Fair: Why not miss it!
4 mins -
GPL 2024/25: Struggling Asante Kotoko aim to bounce back against high-flying Nations FC
18 mins -
GES Deputy D-G admonishes students to uphold integrity and teamwork
45 mins -
Election 2024: Osabarima Dr Owusu Beyeeman advocates for peace
52 mins -
Fashion at Joy Prime Made in Ghana Fair
3 hours -
Alan Kyerematen wanted me to be his running mate – Okyeame Kwame
3 hours -
AFCON 2025Q: Otto Addo calls up Jerry Afriyie, two others for Niger clash
5 hours -
Vacant Seats: Supreme Court failed to strengthen Ghana’s democracy – NDC’s Beatrice Annan
5 hours -
Coop Kee makes bold statement with ‘Ohemaa’
5 hours -
Judiciary not a rubber stamp for Jubilee House decisions – Atta Akyea asserts
6 hours -
Judiciary being manipulated by politicians – Franklin Cudjoe claims
6 hours -
NPP slams ‘unwarranted and disgraceful’ attacks on Kufuor
6 hours -
Election 2024: Dampare cautions public against electoral misconduct
6 hours -
Mahama: Voting for Bawumia is endorsing mismanagement
6 hours -
NPP Ho Central PC launches ‘DINATO’ loan scheme to support women traders
6 hours