President John Dramani Mahama has said the ongoing national debate around LGBTQ+ issues should not overshadow what he described as Ghana’s more urgent national concerns, stressing that the country must remain focused on addressing the everyday needs of its people. Speaking at a Presidential Dialogue with Civil Society Organisations at Jubilee House in Accra on Monday, March 30, the President called for restraint, dialogue and a measured national conversation on the issue.
Mahama described the matter as sensitive and emotionally charged, noting that even countries with long-established liberal traditions continue to struggle with it. He urged stakeholders to approach the discussion calmly and with respect for Ghana’s values and democratic processes.
“I explained during my recent engagement with the World Affairs Council that it is not the most important issue we face as a nation.”
He said the government’s immediate focus remains on bread-and-butter issues affecting ordinary Ghanaians.
“We are still grappling with the provisions of basic needs of education, health care, jobs, food, clothing, and shelter,” he stated.
The President noted that discussions around the private member’s bill in Parliament reflect the wide range of opinions that exist within Ghanaian society. He said any eventual outcome must be guided by the Constitution, the rule of law and respect for human rights.
“While there are strong and differing views within our society, we believe that issues must be addressed through democratic processes, our core values, dialogue, and the rule of law,” he said.
Mahama also acknowledged the international attention Ghana’s position on the issue has attracted and stressed the need for constructive engagement with external partners while preserving the country’s constitutional and cultural framework.
“These developments underscore the importance of continued engagement and mutual respect, and of situating our national decisions within our constitutional and cultural context,” he added.
The remarks come at a time of heightened public debate over LGBTQ+ issues in Ghana, with political actors, civil society groups and religious organisations continuing to express sharply differing views on the matter.
