President Mahama has not deprioritised LGBTQ issues – Gbande clarifies

Claims that LGBTQ issues are no longer a priority under John Dramani Mahama are a misconception being unfairly attributed to him, according to the NDC’s Deputy General Secretary, Mustapha Gbande.

Speaking to Tutuwaa Danso on Starr Today, Gbande clarified that President Mahama has not downplayed the issue, but has consistently maintained that it must be addressed within the appropriate constitutional and parliamentary framework, amid ongoing public debate.

“There are clear context issues regarding what President Mahama actually said and the implications of the reported cancellation by Lincoln University, which was initially expected to honour him.

Reports suggest the event was cancelled just two days prior, allegedly due to concerns raised by some members of the university council over President Mahama’s perceived stance on LGBTQ issues.

However, listening to the President directly provides important clarity. He emphasized that Ghana has urgent national priorities, stating, ‘we have a nation to build.’ On the LGBTQ bill, he explained that it is not a government-sponsored policy, but a private members’ bill initiated and handled by Parliament.

He further noted that a similar bill was previously presented to the presidency but was not assented to by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. In line with the Constitution, it was returned to Parliament with reasons.

As it stands, the bill remains within the jurisdiction of Parliament. It is up to Members of Parliament, many of whom are still in office, to determine whether to review, amend, or advance it through further consultations.

President Mahama has indicated that should the bill be duly passed and reach his desk, he will act in accordance with constitutional provisions, balancing his mandate with Ghana’s cultural values. His broader focus, he stressed, remains on stabilizing the economy and addressing employment challenges.

At no point has President Mahama stated that LGBTQ issues are irrelevant; rather, he has consistently framed them within proper constitutional and institutional processes. He has also underscored his personal faith and values, noting that he is a Christian who respects established cultural and moral frameworks.

Ultimately, there is no indication that President Mahama intends to renege on his commitments to the people of Ghana.”